Spring 2020 Commencement
Dear Students;
I consider the commencement ceremonies we host each year to be among the most important and cherished traditions of this university. Commencement is the celebration of a life-changing and singular achievement-one that has been years and even decades in the making. While every student will tell a different story about their journey to earning their degree, and every student will remember their graduation day.
Nearly all university activities this spring have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 global health crisis. Our number one objective in navigating this pandemic since day one has been to ensure the health and safety of our faculty, staff and students. As it takes 6-8 weeks to coordinate commencement, and in keeping with this commitment, we have made the decision to postpone our scheduled May 15-16 spring commencement ceremonies this year.
Please know that we are committed to hosting a safe and memorable on-campus commencement event for this spring’s graduates. Given the fact that COVID-19 is still an evolving pandemic, we are not able to announce any specifics on a new date and time. Once we are assured that we can safely host a commencement celebration befitting the importance of this seminal event in your lives, we will provide enough lead-time for you to make necessary travel and lodging arrangements.
I recently shared our commitment to delivering a commencement regalia kit to every spring graduate so that they can celebrate with their family and friends in the moment. For those of you who have submitted a notice of intent to graduate, you will receive your regalia kit no later than the second week of June. Each kit will contain a gown, a hood (for graduate students), mortarboard, tassel, commencement program and your diploma in an official Fort Hays State University diploma case. Our hope is that you will use this kit to celebrate your great achievement with those family and friends who have helped you throughout your academic career. I ask that you hold on to the key elements in this kit. You will need them when you return to campus for that memorable walk across the stage.
Thank you for your patience and understanding. This global health crisis has challenged all of us to persevere, innovate and rededicate ourselves to taking care of each other. These are the things we do best, and I continue to be proud of how Tigers have risen to this generational challenge.
Warmest Regards,
Tisa Mason
President
Fall 2020 Commencement
Friday, December 11, 1 PM
Gross Memorial Coliseum
All Colleges
KAMS 2020 Spring Commencement - **Postponed**
Please contact the Office of the Provost or the Office of the Registrar with any questions.