CMU to host in-person, outdoor commencement ceremonies in May

​The global pandemic put a stop to all of Central Michigan University’s in-person commencement plans in 2020. Those graduates — along with more than 2,750 who will graduate this spring — will have the opportunity to walk across the stage and receive their diplomas at a series of outdoor commencement ceremonies this May.

“I am thrilled to be able to personally congratulate our May 2021 graduates and to welcome 2020 graduates back to campus to celebrate their achievements,” CMU President Bob Davies said. “Receiving a college diploma is an outstanding accomplishment and our graduates deserve to be recognized in person.”

In a video to 2020 and May 2021 graduates, President Davies announces plans for May 2021 commencement in Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

The ceremonies will be held in Kelly/Shorts Stadium over the course of two weekends in May. May 2021 graduates will be celebrated in ceremonies held May 7, 8 and 9; which ceremony students attend is based on their degree program. Alumni who graduated in 2020 can return to Mount Pleasant to attend one of several ceremonies scheduled on May 15.

Each graduate is guaranteed two tickets, allowing for proper physical distancing within the stadium at all times. All attendees also will be required to wear face coverings.

“The health and safety of our students, their family and friends, our campus community, and our surrounding area remains a top priority,” Davies said. “That has driven all of our decision-making, including our plans to celebrate CMU’s 2020 and May 2021 graduates.”

Further details about the May commencement ceremonies will be available on CMU’s commencement website as they become available.