Dear UM family,
In light of the rapidly increasing number of COVID-19 cases in Alabama and throughout the nation, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the Dec. 12 commencement ceremony on Flowerhill Lawn. We were initially optimistic we would be able to hold the ceremony as planned, but unfortunately the spike in cases will prevent us from doing so. The health and safety of our UM family and guests are our highest priorities.
Commencement is a momentous occasion that honors the culmination of your college career. It is a wonderful day during which we are proud to celebrate your accomplishments. Although this news is disappointing, we will have the comfort of knowing that you and your family are safer having not traveled and risked additional exposure.
UM is planning to hold a traditional, in-person ceremony for all spring and fall 2020 graduates on campus once the virus has abated and it is safe again to gather in large numbers. You have earned a special ceremony – just for you, and we pledge to make this happen. Once the details of that event are finalized, they will be communicated.
Dr. John W. Stewart III
UM President