Dear Members of the Emmanuel College Community,
Last Thursday, I wrote a special message to members the Class of 2020 on the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on their final semester at Emmanuel College. Since then, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has issued a stay-at-home advisory, and we have received updated information on the continued and projected spread of the virus. In view of these developments, we are formally postponing our May 16th Commencement Exercises on the Emmanuel College campus.
I believe it is vital to continue our tradition of honoring graduates as they begin the next exciting chapters of their lives. The Class of 2020, the first class to graduate in the College’s second century, deserves a celebration to mark the culmination of its Emmanuel experience. We will make every effort to hold a special and memorable event at a time informed by public health and safety recommendations.
A number of student services offices will be working with members of the senior class to develop creative ways to acknowledge the special date of May 16th. While an in-person event date cannot be confirmed at this time, those students completing degree requirements this spring will be considered Emmanuel College graduates as of May 16, 2020. This conferral date will be posted on all transcripts.
Once again, I want to express my admiration for the flexibility and grace you are exhibiting in these times. Now and in the weeks to come, may we remain both connected and united as we ask the blessings of Emmanuel, our God with us.
Sister Janet Eisner, SNDdeN
President