Dear Members of the Graduating Class of 2021,

As you move into the homestretch of your time as students of Seattle University, I write to update you on our plans for your Commencement.

While there is reason to be hopeful for the future, we also know it will be some time before life begins to return to something more closely resembling what it was before the COVID-19 pandemic. Considering when we can reasonably expect to reach herd immunity and safely return to holding large, in-person gatherings, we have decided to celebrate Seattle University’s 2021 Commencement virtually on June 13.

The School of Law has reached the same decision, and its May 15 Commencement Ceremony will also be celebrated virtually.

In addition to the health concerns associated with in-person gatherings in these times, we are mindful of the family members and the students currently connected with us remotely, who would need to take on the further risk and expense of traveling to and from Seattle. By celebrating Commencement virtually, we are prioritizing the health and safety of our entire university community while ensuring that the event is most inclusive of our graduating students and their families.

As disappointed as we are to not be able to gather in person, we look forward to joyfully celebrating with you and your families in June (or in May for the Law School). Over the next few months we will be planning a ceremony that is both enjoyable and memorable. In particular, we look forward to calling your names, one by one, so that we may applaud and honor you for your incredible accomplishments and perseverance during these extraordinary and challenging times.

Sincerely,

Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
President