University of Virginia President Jim Ryan says newly relaxed COVID-19 state restrictions are allowing the University greater flexibility as it plans Final Exercises for the Class of 2021.
On Wednesday afternoon, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam released preliminary guidance for how colleges, universities and K-12 schools can safely hold in-person graduation and commencement events this spring.
“Graduation events held outdoors will be capped at 5,000 people or 30% of the venue capacity, whichever is less,” Northam’s press release said. “Graduation events held indoors may have up to 500 people, or 30% of the venue capacity, whichever is less. Attendees must wear masks and follow other guidelines and safety protocols to ensure proper distancing.”
In social media posts later Wednesday, Ryan said he was “delighted to report that, earlier today, Governor Northam announced that COVID-19 restrictions related to graduation ceremonies have been substantially – indeed, dramatically – revised.”
