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Commencement
Bucknell University's 171st Commencement is scheduled for Sunday, May 23, 2021.
Bucknell is committed to celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2021, although plans for an in-person Commencement are tentative and subject to pandemic conditions and state restrictions on large gatherings. In the weeks ahead, we will closely monitor the latest COVID-19 public health recommendations and use this information to determine the safest possible approach to Commencement.
Travel Planning
It is important to recognize that any in-person celebration on May 23 would almost certainly preclude a full-scale, traditional weekend of activities. For this reason, we recommend that families and friends avoid making any non-refundable travel arrangements until the University confirms Commencement plans. We anticipate a final decision on or around March 22.
Ceremony Options
In order to remain as nimble as possible, Bucknell is exploring several options for the Commencement ceremony. These options include:
- A virtual event
- A socially distanced in-person gathering
- A student-only event
Determining factors in this decision will include:
- Our ability to complete the semester in person
- Vaccination distribution progress
- State-mandated travel restrictions for out-of-town guests
- Gathering restrictions established by state and local authorities
As we evaluate all scenarios, our top priority is the health and safety of our students and families, the Bucknell community and our Lewisburg neighbors. Regardless of the form Commencement takes, Bucknell is committed to honoring the hard work and graduation of the Class of 2021.
Class of 2020 Celebration
Bucknell remains committed to celebrating the achievements of the Class of 2020. Plans for an in-person celebration are tentative and subject to pandemic conditions and state restrictions on large gatherings. Further details about a celebration for the Class of 2020 will be shared by the end of March.
For More Information
Please call the Commencement hotline at 570-577-1192 or email commencement@bucknell.edu with questions.
Congratulations, 2021 Parents!
Honor your graduate and their accomplishments by making a gift to Bucknell. You can choose to make a gift in honor of someone who has made an impact on your student at Bucknell. This may be a professor, a coach, a campus employee or a fellow student.
Meet Bucknell's 2021 Commencement Speaker
Career-long public policy shaper Audra Wilson '94, president and chief executive officer of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law, will be Bucknell University's 2021 Commencement speaker.