Minnesota State has canceled in-person graduation ceremonies at all 30 of its colleges and seven universities in hopes of slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Many schools “are preparing for alternative forms of celebration such as virtual commencement events,” said Doug Anderson, spokesman for the higher education system.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended any events of 50 or more people be canceled to keep COVID-19 in check. Smaller gatherings should be held only if participants keep their distance from each other.
Earlier this week, the Minnesota State system announced it would be continuing all of its courses in alternative delivery methods when classes resume March 30. Alternate formats means any number of possible changes to how a class is held. For example, it could mean using technology in a different way or even a change in the number of times a class is held.
The University of Minnesota also has canceled graduation ceremonies and moved instruction online for the rest of the spring semester.
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Clarification: This article has been updated to reflect that some Minnesota State schools might hold alternative graduation ceremonies.