Commencement – Class of 2020

Dear Class of 2020,

We continue to be saddened about the abrupt way in which your final year at ENC ended.   You have responded to the many challenges and changes with resilience and grace, and we are proud of your many accomplishments.

We look forward to celebrating those accomplishments at a commencement ceremony, and this letter comes to provide you with an update on those plans.   Thank you to all who completed the exploratory survey that President Connell sent out regarding your feelings and hopes for the experience.

After reviewing the survey responses (in which a clear majority expressed a preference for an in-person ceremony) and considering the ever-changing nature of the pandemic, it seems that the best option for the safety of all participants is to hold your graduation ceremony in May 2021.    While a postponement of this length is difficult, there does not seem to be a viable path to holding an in-person ceremony any sooner – at least not without the substantial risk of yet another postponement.

As a result, Commencement Festivities for the Class of 2020 are scheduled for May 15, 2021 on the ENC campus.  Please note that even though the weekend will be shared with the Class of 2021, you will have your own distinct commencement ceremony.    The specifics of the schedule are still to be determined, and we will be in touch with those details at a later time.

While we hope that most of you can participate in person, we will also provide an opportunity for virtual participation so that those who cannot attend can be a part of the celebration.

The Registrar’s Office has emailed students who had their degree conferred for January, May, or June with instructions about receiving your diploma.  Please respond to their email as soon as you are able.  Diploma mailing will begin in early August.  August graduates will be contacted about diploma distribution in early September.

We ask for and appreciate your continued understanding and patience as we seek to develop an appropriate way to acknowledge your accomplishments and bring closure to your time at ENC.  We all continue to pray that you are well and for God’s grace and peace in your lives.   Please be in touch with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

William Malas
Interim Academic Dean

Linda Scott
Associate Academic Dean