Whitman College Welcomes Viewers to Virtual Commencement
For the first time in its history, Whitman College will celebrate its graduating class with a virtual sendoff. Due to health and safety measures put in place to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, colleges and universities across the state, country and around the world have had to think creatively about how to salute the Class of 2020.
“This is, of course, not how we originally envisioned marking this occasion with our seniors and their families,” said President Kathleen Murray. “At the same time, I am optimistic that the program we’ve put together will be a fitting tribute to a class that’s worked so hard and overcome so much, especially in these final few months of their college careers. Their resilience, good humor and grace is certainly something to celebrate this weekend.”
While this year’s festivities will not include the traditional gathering of graduates and their guests on Memorial South Lawn, students still received their Whitman caps and tassels and had the opportunity to submit photos, videos and personal messages to be shared during their portion of the event. Diplomas will be mailed to each student along with extra copies of the official commencement program.
As always, the ceremony will feature remarks from President Murray and Board of Trustees Chair Nancy Serrurier, as well as class speaker Maude Lustig ’20 and commencement speaker Katie Krummeck ’03, who designed an interactive address with input from graduates. Provost Alzada Tipton will read the names of the 415 students participating in Whitman’s 134th Commencement.
To watch Whitman’s online commencement ceremony live, click on the link that will soon be posted on the commencement webpage.