Graduation Recognition Ceremony
Graduation Recognition Ceremony | Spring 2021
It is with great anticipation and excitement that Ohio University Eastern welcomes the Spring 2021 graduation class to a special, in-person Graduation Recognition Ceremony. This is a separate event from the formal Spring Commencement Ceremonies held on the Athens campus beginning on Thursday, April 29th through Monday, May 3rd.
Date: Thursday, April 29th
Check-In Arrival: 6:30 p.m.
Ceremony Begins: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Health and Physical Education Center (HAPEC)
In-Person Expectations
Ohio University Eastern is currently fluid in planning and monitoring safety guidelines. However, the following facts are confirmed about the upcoming, in-person Graduation Recognition Ceremony.
Please continue to check back for updates as we progress in the planning process.
About the Ceremony
The ceremony length will be approximately 1 hour in length and will include the following:
• Welcome and Introductions by Dean David Rohall
• Guest Speaker
• Presentation of Student Awards and Candidates
• Closing
A gift bag will be included for graduating students that will include a Recognition Ceremony certificate, small gift, program and cords.
Reservations Required
All graduates will have the opportunity to have two (2) guests attend this ceremony. Reservations are REQUIRED to follow COVID-19 spacing protocols and seating accommodations. Students will be required to complete the registration form and provide contact information of guests attending. Guest contact information is required in case contact tracing is necessary.
Should you need special accessibility accommodations, please indicate these on the registration form.
CAP & GOWN PACKAGES
Regalia is required for the in-person ceremony. You may not participate in person without Ohio University issued regalia. No regalia sales will occur at the ceremony venue.
Any graduating student may purchase regalia, regardless of their ceremony participation. Academic honor cords for cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude will be provided by the University based on academic information from the Registrar's Office.
Order Deadline: April 17, 2021
Note: Be sure to purchase your regalia before the order deadline to ensure on-time delivery. Shipping delays have been experienced and are common because of COVID-19. Gowns feature distinct styles for Associate/Bachelor, Master and Doctoral degrees. A Bachelor gown may not be worn at the graduate/masters ceremony.
Graduate Recognition
All graduates will be asked to stand at their assigned seat when their name is called. Students will fill out a card at check in and will be organized by degree type and last name.
Guests are asked to remain seated as graduate names are being called.
Photography
Ashley Tracy Photography will be onsite to take photographs before the event from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The photographer will provide 2-5 digital photos for each graduate who decides to have their photo taken. The cost is $20.00 cash. The photographer will email students digital photos within two weeks following the event. For more information about the photographer check out Ashley Tracy Photography on Instagram @ ashleytracyphoto
Guest may take photos during the ceremony, but we ask that they remain seated during the ceremony so not to disturb other guest who are trying to see their graduate.
A selfie station will also be available to get a special shot with a Rufus cutout.
There should be many opportunities to capture a popular family photo or selfie around the Ohio University Eastern campus. Be sure to hashtag #OHIOgrad2021 to share your memories!
Safety
Personal Health Screening: All guests entering the Graduation Recognition Ceremony area are advised to conduct a personal health screening before arriving to campus. Those who feel ill, have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, have been exposed to someone with symptoms of COVID-19, have been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, or who have tested positive themselves, must stay home. Click here to learn more about the CDC’s health guidelines.
Social Distancing and Mask Requirements: This indoor ceremony will adhere to proper social distancing of six feet apart. Guests will be seated in twos, six feet apart from other guests, unless otherwise noted in the registration. Masks will be required for all students and guests in attendance.
Sanitization: Hand sanitizers will be present at every entrance. Additionally, grounds staff will disinfect all seating prior to the ceremony.
This ceremony will follow all guidelines outlined by the State of Ohio, Governor Mike Dewine and Ohio University COVID protocols. Safety protocols will be given to students and guests prior to the ceremony.
Ohio University Commencement
Ohio University plans to host multiple in-person Spring Commencement events at Peden Stadium over the course of several days, streamed live for graduates who prefer to participate virtually. These ceremonies are separate events from the Graduation Recognition Ceremony at OHIO Eastern.
Dates: Thursday, April 29th through Monday, May 3rd
RSVP Due: Wednesday, March 17th
More Details
Questions?
CONTACT: Lori Poch | Student Services | poch@ohio.edu | 740-699-2354