KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas State University announced changes to upcoming commencement ceremonies, citing a projected surge of COVID-19 cases across Kansas.
The ceremonies, scheduled for Nov. 20 through Nov. 22, will no longer feature any speeches or processionals, and graduates will no longer be allowed two guests.
Graduates will still have the opportunity to cross the stage and take a photo. Guests will have to watch from a virtual stream of the event.
“We understand the importance of these ceremonies to our graduates, faculty and staff,” University President Richard B. Myers said. “However, given the recent surge in cases and the consequent strain on medical resources throughout the state, we must take every precaution with these events. We know these changes will cause disappointment, but our first priority is the safety of the K-State family and our host communities.”
On Friday, Kansas shattered a single-day record for COVID-19 cases after recording 4,726 bringing the state's total to 98,755. It also reported 79 new deaths to the virus. That total is now up 1,166 people.
The university said it's "extending the opportunity for spring, summer and fall 2020 graduates to postpone participation in commencement until spring 2021. Details about the combined ceremonies will be shared in the coming months."
