Ohio State to host in-person spring graduation
Ohio State University announced Wednesday afternoon that it will host two in-person graduation ceremonies in May, as well as an honorary ceremony in August for 2020 graduates who missed out last year.
This will be Ohio State’s first inperson commencement ceremony since late 2019 after the COVID-19 pandemic derailed graduation ceremonies last spring.
“We are partnering with state and local health officials on a plan to provide our students and their families with the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments safely in person,” Ohio State President Kristina M. Johnson said in the announcement.
Two graduation ceremonies will be held at Ohio Stadium on May 9. Each graduate can bring two guests, and a livestream will be available for those who can’t attend in person. Each gradate and their guests will be separated from other pods of three by 6 feet.
All ticketing will be digital to minimize close interaction, and seating and timed gate entry will be designated ahead of time.
Graduates will receive diplomas on their way into the stadium via assigned times. Ohio State is one of the only universities of its size to give graduates their physical diplomas on graduation day.
A survey conducted by Ohio State’s Office of Student Life found that 86% of 2021 graduates were in favor of an in-person ceremony. Those who favor in-person commencement said they and their families have been looking forward to the opportunity.
“I’m especially excited for this opportunity for our first-generation graduates, who noted the special importance of commencement,” Johnson said. “The health and safety of Buckeye Nation remain our top priority, and we will continue to work in partnership with health officials to make safe choices to celebrate our students’ collegiate accomplishments.”
Ohio State will also recognize the 2020 graduates who missed out on an in-person ceremony as part of its Aug. 8 commencement. This commencement, typically held at the Schottenstein Center, will be moved to Ohio Stadium to help ensure a safe and healthy experience.
Spring, summer and autumn 2020 graduates all had virtual commencement ceremonies because of the ongoing pandemic. shendrix@dispatch.com @sheridan120