TXST moves graduation ceremonies online

Texas State University announced Monday that it would be moving its in-person summer commencement ceremonies to virtual ceremonies. 

The university previously announced that it would postpone its spring ceremonies to Aug. 6-8 to coincide with the planned Aug. 7 summer ceremonies. 

University President Denise Trauth said that Texas State’s commencement feasibility work group examined the safest options to hold in-person ceremonies for over 6,000 graduates and their families and friends. The university determined that it would not be possible to hold graduation ceremonies and adhere to required social-distancing measures. 

Texas State’s virtual commencement ceremonies will take place Aug. 6-8. 

“As president, commencement is my favorite time of year,” Trauth said. “Like many of you, I am disappointed that we cannot come together in person to celebrate this special occasion. However, I take comfort in knowing that we are doing the right thing to protect our Bobcat family and the greater San Marcos community.

“I know this may feel like a diminished experience, but by no means does it lessen the accomplishments of our graduates,” she added. “Commencement is important because it is the ceremony to celebrate and formally recognize the degrees you have earned as graduates of Texas State University.  No matter what form commencement takes, those degrees are yours now, and for the rest of your lives.”

Trauth said planning is ongoing to ensure graduates have a “very special experience” during the virtual commencement ceremonies. 

“We want to honor our brave students who persevered and graduated despite the disruption caused by the pandemic,” Trauth said.