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Commencement 2021: Guests Invited

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For the latest updates on commencement, continue to visit the Cal State Fullerton commencement website at fullerton.edu/commencement.

Cal State Fullerton is pleased to announce that since certain health indicators have been met in Orange County, two guests per graduate will be allowed at the in-person commencement ceremonies, scheduled for June 12-15. Guests will still be required to wear masks and maintain social distancing guidelines. 

“This unique format will allow guests to remain with their graduate for the entire in-person experience and get a front row view of the student’s stage walk,” said Todd Frandsen, associate vice president of central development. “The guests will walk the entire way with their grad, something that will only happen this year. We are excited to offer this opportunity for our 2020 and 2021 grads.”

“This year will truly be like no other, with graduates and guests lining up at safe distances, wearing masks as they wait their turn to cross the stage for the picture-perfect moment,” said Greg Saks, vice president for university advancement.

Because the pivot to include guests was made recently, seating for guests and grads will be unavailable. While every attempt will be made to stagger arrival times, there may be lines (similar to those experienced by those waiting for vaccinations). 

Commencement ceremonies will include:

  • Virtual All-University Commencement – On Friday, June 11, all graduating students will be invited to join an all-university virtual ceremony that will include speeches from campus leadership and the conferring of degrees. The exact time will be announced soon.
  • Virtual College Ceremonies – Also on Friday, June 11, and following the all-university commencement, each of the university’s eight colleges will have a virtual celebration with a program specific to that college. 
  • In-Person Graduate-Only Stage Walk – Since crossing the stage is an important aspect of commencement, graduates may participate in an in-person, walk across the commencement stage. To better ensure the safety and health of all, family members each graduate will be allowed two guests who will accompany the graduate to the stage. Seating for graduates and guests will not be available. However, the stage walk will be live-streamed and recorded for guests to safely view at home. These stage walks will be organized by college, from June 12-15.

Contact:
Valerie Orleans
vorleans@fullerton.edu