Pitt to host first virtual graduation ceremony in university history

PITTSBURGH — The University of Pittsburgh released more details to students about its historic virtual graduation ceremony, scheduled for Sunday April 26. University officials said it will be the first online gathering of its kind in school history.

Nearly 4,800 undergraduate students, their friends and family had expected to crowd the Peterson Events Center for graduation, but then the COVID-19 outbreak happened. Still, the university said it is determined to not let this milestone for the class of 2020 go unmarked.

“This year’s graduates are remarkable - and not just because they have thrived academically during an unprecedented time in humankind’s history,” said Pitt Chancellor Patrick Gallagher. “I am proud of all that they accomplished during their time at Pitt and look forward to celebrating their continued successes for years to come.”

On April 26 at 11:30 a.m., nearly 8,000 undergraduate, master’s, professional and doctoral candidates will celebrate their graduation online. Pitt will host the virtual celebration on commencement.pitt.edu. The 30-minute event will include what you’d see in a traditional graduation ceremony, plus remarks from Chancellor Gallagher, Provost Ann E. Cudd, greetings from deans and alumni and remarks from four graduating seniors.

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“The milestone that commencement represents is one of the most significant ones our students, faculty and staff work toward each and every year,” said Cudd, who also is senior vice chancellor. “It is the day that best illustrates our university’s mission - and nothing can change that. I look forward to celebrating the Class of 2020’s exceptional accomplishments.”

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