University of Wisconsin to invite 2020 graduates back for post-COVID-19 celebration

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is inviting 2020 graduates back to the school for a post-coronavirus celebration after their in-person graduation ceremonies were canceled.

The school announced Thursday that all 2020 graduates from the spring, summer and fall will be welcomed back to campus between Sept. 17 and Sept. 19 for music, photo opportunities and guest speakers.

“The pandemic took from these graduates a special part of their college experience — the opportunity to mark the completion of their degrees at Camp Randall with their fellow Badgers,” said Chancellor Rebecca Blank. “We pledged at the time that we would celebrate together when it became safe to do so. We’re excited to plan for such a celebration this fall.”

The event is not a graduation ceremony as all graduates had virtual ceremonies last year.

Friends and family are welcomed to attend the events and campus COVID-19 guidelines will be in place throughout the weekend.

“The Office of the Chancellor is working with the Wisconsin Union, the Wisconsin Alumni Association and the 2020 senior class officers on additional events for returning graduates throughout the weekend, including a special event on the Wisconsin Union Terrace and an exclusive Class of 2020 concert,” the announcement states.

Many college graduates across the country had in-person graduation ceremonies replaced with virtual ones due to the coronavirus.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison will be hosting two in-person graduation ceremonies this spring; however, only graduates will be allowed to attend. Family and friends will still have to watch virtually.

Many schools are allowing students to come back in person this fall, but some are requiring them to get the coronavirus vaccine before returning to campus.