Dear UWM Faculty and Staff,

It is heartening to share good news with you today – our May 2020 Commencement ceremonies are rescheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10. Our students deserve to celebrate their hard work, all-nighters, sacrifices and achievements. And, unlike any other graduating class in our history, this group has endured unforeseen and challenging circumstances spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic.

We needed to consider many factors in rescheduling Commencement, including availability of the UWM Panther Arena, which is controlled by the Wisconsin Center District. The possible lengthening of social distancing guidance in Wisconsin also remains a factor we will continue to monitor.

One Ceremony or Two?
Traditionally, we hold two ceremonies in May due to the large number of graduates in the spring. At this time, we are  exploring whether to hold one or two ceremonies on Oct. 10. I acknowledge that by October – several months after most will have graduated – that individuals will be busy with new jobs, graduate school, volunteer work, families and more.

We are developing a student survey to help determine how many graduates will participate in the Oct. 10 commencement. We expect to send that survey to eligible graduates no later than the first week of May.

Please note that commencement is the celebration of students’ work, and eligible May 2020 graduates will still graduate, or earn their degree, on time.

I’d ask that all who have contact with eligible graduates to express your thanks and acknowledge the extraordinary patience, flexibility and added stress these students have faced – and continue to manage – during this pandemic. For you and our students alike, the impact of COVID-19 has been highly personal. I sincerely hope that many of you will be part of our Oct. 10 commencement, whether as volunteers or ceremonial participants.

Best regards,