Message from the Office of the President: Spring 2022 Commencement Update

Dear students, faculty, and staff,

Commencement is such an important time at the University of Minnesota. In the presence of family and friends, and our faculty, staff, and alumni, we come together as a community to mark a completion and a new beginning for our graduates. Especially this year, in light of all we have experienced as a result of the pandemic, it brings me great joy to share that Executive Vice President and Provost Rachel Croson and our Crookston, Duluth, Morris, and Rochester chancellors are planning graduation ceremonies that will be very similar to those we have historically enjoyed.

We will update you on masks and other guidance closer to commencement dates as public health data evolves. In the meantime, our focus is on creating an experience that will safely celebrate the successes of our graduates, the joy of their families and loved ones, and the resilience of our entire community.

Several colleges and campuses are planning to involve graduates from previous years who were not able to attend previous events and enjoy a traditional commencement. These decisions will be made locally and graduates from prior years will receive instructions from their college and/or campus.

I wish our graduates all the very best, and we look forward to recognizing your many achievements in the weeks ahead.

With great hope and warm wishes,
Joan Gabel