Excelsior College’s 49th Annual Commencement to be Held Virtually on July 10

by | July 6th, 2020

Albany, NY — Excelsior College’s 49th Annual Commencement will be the first 100 percent virtual ceremony for the distance-learning college. The College has historically broadcast Commencement for those who couldn’t attend the in-person event. However, this year due to COVID-19, graduates received their cap, tassel, and other items by mail to participate in the event virtually. The new format will be even more inclusive as all graduates will have the opportunity to participate without travel concerns related to health, finances, or schedule.

The Commencement celebration will take place online on Friday, July 10 at 3 pm ET with speakers, alumni tributes, and awards. To accommodate time zones and the schedules of Excelsior’s working adult students, a link will remain on the webpage for all to enjoy at their convenience. Graduates will also engage with their peers on social media by sharing photos and stories of their Excelsior celebrations from around the world.

Excelsior’s Class of 2020 is approximately 5,000 graduates representing 49 states and 21 countries. The oldest graduate is 75 years young. Twenty-eight percent of graduates are members of the U.S. military and 772 graduates are U.S. veterans.

“Excelsior students are known for their perseverance and resilience. We kept their commitment to degree completion in the forefront as we adapted for this virtual celebration. The Class of 2020 will be remembered and celebrated for their academic accomplishments and for their grit and determination in the face of adverse circumstances. We are proud of them and extend the best wishes of the College community to all,” said James N. Baldwin, president of Excelsior College.

All graduates are invited to participate in this year’s virtual celebration, and as always, graduates will also have the option to walk in a future Commencement ceremony.

#  #  #

 ABOUT EXCELSIOR COLLEGE

Excelsior College (excelsior.edu) is a regionally accredited, not-for-profit online college focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. The college contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity. Learn more at excelsior.edu.

Excelsior College Media Contact:

Alicia Jacobs, ajacobs@excelsior.edu, 518-410-4624