SALISBURY, Md. - Salisbury University leaders provided a glimpse Thursday at what spring graduation ceremonies might look like as the school continues to adapt to COVID protocols issued by the state.
Currently, the number of positive COVID cases at SU has remained under one percent, a figure officials credit to regular testing, mask wearing, and social distancing.
"We realize COVID fatigue is setting in but this is not the time to let our guard down, especially with more contagious variants of the virus spreading throughout the country and throughout the world," said SU President Rick Wight.
SU Provost Dr. Karen Olmstead said if the number of positive cases remains low, the school plans to offer a hybrid of virtual and in-person events for graduates in May.
"The commencement team is planning a tentative in-person grad walk at Seagull Stadium between May 13th and May 16th and this will be an opportunity for graduates to walk across the stage in their cap and gown, their regalia, and have photo opportunities but of course under safe conditions," said Olmstead.
"We sincerely hope that public health conditions in May will allow for this in-person grad walk but we'll have to carefully monitor the COVID conditions not only in the local area but in our multi-state reason to make sure it's safe for everyone."
Olmstead said each individual school within the university will hold a virtual graduation ceremony featuring special speakers and the reading of each graduate's name.
She said SU will make a final decision on the in-person event by April 15th