Friday, August 9, 2024

Message from the President

Dear Students,

My announcement earlier this week about December commencement sparked passionate and heartfelt responses from our students and their loved ones. I have heard you. Your reactions are completely understandable, and they have prompted me and the university leadership to think more creatively about how we might celebrate our fall graduates in a suitable manner. We have made the decision to hold several smaller, more intimate ceremonies in December in the University Center. Students will wear their caps and gowns and have their names announced as their families and loved ones cheer them on.

We are still working out all of the important details, including how the ceremonies will be separated, and the specific dates and times of each ceremony. I will share those with you before the start of classes on August 19. But I did not want to wait any longer to let you know that we are pursuing an alternative solution. I hope I have not given the impression that I do not value and appreciate the hard work and dedication that our graduates have exhibited during their time at the University. Nothing could be further from the truth. I will provide you with additional information in the coming days, and I look forward to taking part in the joyful culmination of your UNO experience in December.

With Privateer Pride,

Kathy Johnson, Ph.D.

President
The University of New Orleans