Ceremony/Covid-19 Updates

As you are no doubt aware, the novel coronavirus is having a major impact on planning for campus graduation ceremonies, including Commencement at Husky Stadium. On March 11, Washington State governor Jay Inslee has ordered that all events with an expected attendance of 250 people or more be cancelled . This restriction was “amended and superceded” by Proclamation 20-25, on March 23. This proclamation prohibited “all people in Washington State from leaving their homes or participating in social, spiritual and recreational gatherings of any kind regardless of the number of participants, and all non-essential businesses in Washington State from conducting business, within the limitations provided herein.”

Public Health – Seattle & King County has also mandated that all events and gatherings of fewer than 250 people in the county are prohibited unless event organizers can take steps to minimize risk. Social distancing efforts across the state are working and must be continued.

The current situation is very fluid. We will do our best to keep you updated with the latest developments and how they might impact Commencement and other graduation ceremonies on campus.

One thing is for sure. Dawgs always find a way to celebrate! Exciting plans are currently underway to mark your graduation day even if we don’t celebrate in Husky Stadium. Watch your email and visit www.uwgraduation.com regularly for all the details on how you can join the celebration.

Obtaining Cap & Gown

Caps and gowns will be ordered via our online form. Unlike previous years, however, graduates will be able to have their orders shipped directly to an address they provide..

To ensure that all graduates are safe, it will be possible this year to purchase doctoral regalia (black tam with gold tassel, traditional black doctoral robe, doctoral hood) that will be brand new and not previously worn. The purchase price will be very close to the former rental price.

Grad Fair

For the past several years we have hosted a Grad Fair in early April in Mary Gates Hall, where students could view and purchase graduation announcements, diploma frames, rings, and other items at special discounted prices. This year we are hosting a “virtual” Grad Fair on our website on April 15, 16 and 17. You will receive an email soon with the details.

Be Safe!

You can keep abreast of the latest COVID-19 developments on the UW’s Novel Coronavirus Information page. As noted on that page, the University is coordinating with the UW Advisory Committee on Communicable Diseases and state and local health departments in its effort to ensure the safety and health of all our students and the entire UW community.

Stay safe! We will find a way to celebrate!