Harvard University To Postpone Graduation Because Of Coronavirus

CAMBRIDGE, MA — Harvard is postponing, indefinitely, its Commencement Exercises, University President Lawrence Bacow wrote in an email to the community Friday.

The commencement would have taken place on Thursday, May 28 and in its stead, the school will hold an online event in an effort to award degrees virtually. Bacow said the decision not to hold the large gathering was made with the advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, other public health officials, and Harvard faculty, who are among the world’s leaders in infectious disease, epidemiology, and virology.

The president said the plan is to host an in-person celebration sometime later, once the school knows it is safe to bring people together again.

“I wish we could give a firm date for this celebration now, but I ask for your patience,” said Bacow. “Everything about this year seems to be turning out unusual. When we do hold commencement for the Harvard Class of 2020, I sincerely hope it will also be unusual, but only because it will be among the most joyous commencements in the history of the University.”

Executive editor of The Washington Post Martin "Marty" Baron, formerly of the Boston Globe was scheduled to give the key note address.

Harvard was one of the first schools in Greater Boston to ask students not to return from spring break. The university said it hoped to have a new online-only system for classes in place by March 23.

Previously:

Harvard Confirms Case Of Coronavirus ...

Harvard, Others Ask Students Not To Return From ... - Patch