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CLASS OF 2020

TRU lays out plan for virtual convocation

Apr 28, 2020 | 4:33 PM

KAMLOOPS — For the class of 2020 at Thompson Rivers University, convocation ceremonies will be virtual.

Every June, hundreds of students walk across a stage at the Tournament Capital Centre to receive their diplomas.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing regulations, these ceremonies will move online to allow students and their families to attend from afar.

“It’s going to be separated into distinct groups,” said Interim Vice President of Advancement Jeff Sodowsky. “I think that’s one of the advantages, actually, of the online celebration or the virtual celebration is in fact that we’re going to be able to do a bit of unique programming that’s distinct to each of the faculties, or each of the schools. Students will be able to celebrate with some of the leaders of their school.”

The first of these convocation ceremonies will be held on June 22.

Students will receive their credentials in the mail, as well as a commemorative program and booklet.

TRU is also looking into options for a more formal ceremony once restrictions are lifted.

“Walking across that stage is such a pivotal moment for so many of us,” Sodowsky said, “so we are also working on provisions to enable the class of 2020 to have that experience to walk across the stage at a future celebration.”