Syracuse University will not hold an on-campus, in-person commencement this year due to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.

SU Chancellor Kent Syverud made the announcement in a campuswide update on the coronavirus Monday. SU suspended in-person classes two weeks ago amid concerns about COVID-19 infections in the U.S. The university has announced a series of measures since then, including shifting classes online for the rest of the semester.

Syverud said university officials had hoped the 2020 commencement could go on as planned, until it became “increasingly apparent” over recent weeks the large gathering could not be held in May.

“I deeply regret this outcome,” Syverud said.

Syverud said graduates would be surveyed for their input on alternative celebrations.

“I promised you would have the celebration you deserve and we will make good on that promise,” Syverud said.

SU also this week announced some options for students whose semesters were cut short and shifted online due to the coronavirus.

SU will prorate room and board for students who left campus early, and will give residential undergraduate students the option to “pass / fail” all their classes for the semester.

Students who want to apply for a room and board refund to can do so online. Students can be reimbursed for housing and unused meal plans, officials said.

Students who want to “pass / fail” their classes instead of receiving a letter grade were encouraged to contact their advisers to discuss GPA requirements, certification and financial aid implications.

Syverud thanked students, faculty and staff for their patience during the public health crisis.

“We are still in the early stages of this crisis, and thus new and complex challenges lie ahead,” Syverud wrote. “However, I’m confident we’ll navigate those challenges together, in a way consistent with the values that define what it means to be Orange.”

Public Affairs Reporter Julie McMahon covers courts, government, education and sometimes fun stuff like treasure hunters. She can be reached anytime: Email | Twitter | 315-412-1992

Thanks for visiting Syracuse.com. Quality local journalism has never been more important, and your subscription matters. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work