Georgia universities cancel graduation ceremonies due to coronavirus outbreak

ATHENS, Ga – Due to the on-going concerns of the wipe-spread coronavirus outbreak, spring commencements at Georgia universities are cancel.

On Monday, the University System of Georgia issued a directive canceling events including intercollegiate athletics, performances, student activities, honor week activities, and commencement following federal social distancing standards.

Updated information about campus operations, student services, and class instruction: https://t.co/Zk01Jvzqj7

For ongoing updates and guidance on COVID-19, visit https://t.co/x4aNb75suO pic.twitter.com/ND2210o2Bh

— UGA (@universityofga) March 17, 2020

The University of Georgia posted the following statement Tuesday:

“We realize that the cancellation of many of these activities is extremely disappointing—particularly the cancellation of Spring Commencement on Friday, May 8, 2020. Therefore, we are exploring other ways to honor our graduates and will communicate when those plans are known. These decisions are not made lightly, but with the best interests of our campus community and our students’ families and loved ones in mind.”

Georgia Southern University had made the same announcement Tuesday.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) update: Cancellation of public events and Spring 2020 commencement exercises

Visit https://t.co/9ilO4rimcr for more information.

— GeorgiaSouthern (@GeorgiaSouthern) March 17, 2020

Students meeting requirements will still be able to graduate. However, the ceremonies scheduled for May 8 have occurred to cancel.