Message from President Casey for the Class of 2020

Dear McDaniel Class of 2020,

You continue to be in the forefront of my thoughts. None of us could have ever imagined all that we are currently facing when you stepped foot on the Hill four years ago. Again, I want to share that I am truly sorry for all of the unavoidable disruptions that you have faced in your final semester. That said, I owe it to you to be the one personally sharing this news with you today.

We have, unfortunately, decided that our planned May 23 Commencement ceremonies for both Graduate and Undergraduate students will not take place. This also includes our Commencement and Senior Week activities, including the ROTC Commissioning Ceremony, Candlelight Processional, and Senior Investiture and Honors Convocation. Although there may not be a ceremony, students who complete their degree requirements will receive their diploma in June.

Please know that we held off making this decision as long as we possibly could. However, because of the continued uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the planning required by the College and many families to attend, we could not wait any longer.

I know how disappointing this decision is for me. Commencement is my favorite College event each year. So I understand how disappointing this news is for all of you—all of the members of our Class of 2020, and your families and friends who were looking forward to celebrating your achievements. I especially feel for those families like mine was, those who would be the first to celebrate a member of their family graduating from college.

I will continue to keep my promise that we will find a way to celebrate you in a special way once we know what is safe and possible. Until then, please continue to focus on your studies and the last few weeks of the semester. Please know that McDaniel will continue to support you every step of the way as you make your transition to post-college life. I am proud of each and every one of you. WE ARE MCDANIEL.

Stay Well and Stay Strong,

President Roger Casey

*please note, a slightly revised version of this email was sent to our graduating master's degree candidates.