N.C. State Plans In-Person Commencement, Prepares For 'Normal' Fall Semester

N.C. State University is the latest college to plan outdoor in-person graduation ceremonies this spring. It joins Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill in announcing in-person commencement events.  

N.C. State will host two outdoor graduation ceremonies in May at Carter-Finley Stadium, open to family and friends.

The News & Observer reports the Raleigh school also told students and faculty they can expect “normal” campus operations in the fall, which will include full dorm occupancy and in-person classes.

School officials have not yet finalized guidelines for the fall semester but say they will follow state and local recommendations. 

UNC-Chapel Hill will also hold an in-person graduation ceremony at Kenan Stadium. Virtual speeches will be delivered by Dr. Anthony Fauci and alumna Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, who has been at the forefront of vaccine development.

Duke University was the first school in the Triangle to announce an in-person commencement. But the school has hit a rocky patch with a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases being attributed to fraternity parties and events. Duke officials have warned of curfews or in-person class cancellations if those numbers continue to worsen.

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