A Toast to the Class of 2020 – Sunday, May 17

Please note the content on these pages and files is no longer being updated and may be out of date.

While the University is committed to holding an in-person Commencement for the graduating class as soon as we are able, we wanted to make sure Sunday, May 17th did not go by without some occasion – a time for you to celebrate and a time for you to reflect.

Please join us online on Sunday, May 17th at 1pm EST for a program with reflections and performances by faculty, administrators and alumni. If you are unable to join us live, you will be able to access the archived event on demand.

Dean Elmore sent the following note to seniors on the morning of May 15, 2020.

It was a long time ago, but it still sticks to my spirit. No one in my family for the generations leading up to me had obtained a college degree and it was now my time. I thought the end of the year graduation rituals were corny and a bit silly – fortunately I decided not to cool out and skip them. I am thankful.  I didn’t realize how much I needed to dance, jump around, sing the school songs, laugh with others – do some other things I refuse to describe here – and claim what I had earned as well as my sense that I belonged and could proudly wear “the colors.”

In my line of work, I am thankful for the privilege of seeing you, and the folks who love you, revel in your achievement. Even though it may feel like you’re in an episode of “Black Mirror,” I implore you – even from a distance – to dance and shout with each other so that they hear you in Chestnut Hill.

Here are a couple of opportunities to be proud in public (or at least virtually) until you see each other again.

Tonight – yes, tonight – we’re partnering with the Seaport nightclub The Grand Boston for a virtual dance party – the livestream party starts at 10 pm and lasts until 1 am, Boston Time, (take a disco nap, please) and features dancers, lights, and DJ Buddy. Use this link get inside the party, then bounce into your choice of four different clubs. Okay, I’ll admit that I was a skeptic until I tried it out this week. The experience the staff recreated, in this format, was amazing and fun. I hope you join in.

Reflect and rejoice on Sunday, May 17, at 1 pm. Gather virtually as the Class of 2020 to raise a glass and toast your accomplishments. After a brief program of music and poetry, you will be able to carry out the senior tradition of stepping on the Boston University seal at Marsh Plaza.

Congratulations Class of 2020! Peace and good vibes to you in hope that you, and the ones you love, are well during this extraordinary moment,

You go, Terrier!

Kenneth Elmore

Associate Provost & Dean of Students