Dear Members of the Graduating Class of 2020,

As Seattle University has worked to respond to the challenges of COVID-19, one of our most difficult decisions has been how best to hold a Commencement that appropriately honors your achievements. We are grateful for the candid and thoughtful input so many of you provided to the commencement survey sent to you last week, which makes this decision clear. 

Based upon the overwhelming preference indicated by members of your graduating class, we have decided to reschedule this year’s Seattle University Commencement, with a Baccalaureate Mass and an in-person ceremony, to October 9-11, 2020. We will be in touch with further details on commencement weekend festivities, but I wanted to get word out to you and your families as soon as possible.

What is most important at this time and the foreseeable future is that we all continue to do what we can to help slow the spread of COVID-19. While it has become clear for this reason that the pandemic will prevent us from holding Commencement as scheduled in June, the Commencement Committee will be working hard to ensure a ceremony in October befitting all you have accomplished and this special milestone in your life.

Commencement is a once-in-a-lifetime event for you and your families and a time of immense pride and joy for the faculty and staff who have taught, mentored and accompanied you on your academic journeys. While we are all disappointed about the need for this year’s ceremony to take place a little later than any of us could have imagined, I appreciate your understanding and look forward to celebrating this wonderful moment with you.

Please note that the deferral of our commencement ceremony in no way impacts your status as a graduate of Seattle University. Your degree will be officially conferred at the end of the quarter and your diploma will be delivered to you by mail. 

I continue to be grateful for your efforts and commitment as you as adapt and thrive in these challenging times. Thank you for your deep and abiding care for one another and for reminding me every day why our Seattle University family is so special.

Sincerely,

Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
President