2020 Comeback Commencement
In this Section:
11:00 a.m. Grad Gathering & gates opens for guests | 1:00 p.m. Ceremony begins
Join Us in Saluting Our 2020 Graduates
Commencement is a landmark occasion when graduates, family members, and friends gather to celebrate the past and future. The Class of 2020 did not get to experience this important tradition in the way most of them had hoped — in person at Michigan Stadium.
They’ve waited two years to formally celebrate this major milestone together at the Big House. It’s our goal to make this a truly memorable day for our 2020 graduates and everyone who supported them along the way.
More details about the Comeback Commencement ceremony will be posted on this page in the near future.
For questions, see the FAQs below or contact the Office of University and Development Events at 734-647-7900 or [email protected]
FAQS
Will the ceremony be held in Michigan Stadium?
Yes! It will be held on the field of Michigan Stadium on Saturday, May 7, 2022 at 1:00 p.m.
I already received my diploma, do I have to attend the ceremony in the stadium on Saturday, May 7, 2022?
It isn’t a requirement that any graduates (regardless of year) attend the commencement ceremony. This event will be a celebration of your accomplishments.
How do I find updates and information about Commencement?
Visit commencement.umich.edu for updates or email [email protected] with additional questions.
Are family and friends able to attend the ceremony?
Yes! We hope that your family and friends will join you in Michigan Stadium on Saturday, May 7, 2022.If any of your guests would prefer to watch online, it will also be livestreamed. Please visit commencement.umich.edu for the link to the ceremony.
Will the seating be assigned for guests?
All seating will be open and available on a first come first served basis.
Will I be able to sit with my friends?
Yes – the graduate seating will be general admission.
Will there be a printed program that includes a list of graduates?
Programs with the name list were mailed to all 2020 graduates during the summer of 2020. An electronic event program will be available for download in Michigan Stadium.
Will I be able to have my picture taken before the ceremony in Michigan Stadium?
Yes! All graduates will have the opportunity to have a professional photo taken before entering Michigan Stadium.
If I can’t attend in person or watch live at 1:00 p.m. EDT on Saturday, May 7, 2022, will the ceremony be available for viewing later?
Yes. After the ceremony has concluded, it will be available for viewing at commencement.umich.edu.
Who will deliver the Spring Commencement address to students?
Anthony S. Fauci
Physician and scientist Anthony S. Fauci will speak at the May 7 “comeback ceremony,” also at Michigan Stadium, for 2020 graduates who didn’t have an in-person commencement because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fauci has been recommended for an Honorary Doctor of Science degree.
Will my School/College or organization be hosting a ceremony?
Some schools, colleges, and non-degree granting units will be hosting celebrations. Please visit commencement.umich.edu/calendar as information is updated. You may also visit the school/college/non-degree granting units’ websites for additional information.
Will the university host additional opportunities to celebrate the class of 2020 in the future?
In addition to the ceremony being held in Michigan Stadium on Saturday, May 7, 2022, the university is also inviting all graduates who missed out on an in-person ceremony due to COVID-19 to attend and participate in any future Commencement of their choosing. They and their families will be our honored guests at these future ceremonies and the graduates will be recognized not just for the completion of their degrees but also for their resilience and fortitude in persevering during these challenging times.
How do I purchase or rent academic attire?
The Michiganensian, Barnes & Noble, and Ulrich’s each offer attire for purchase. If PhD candidates would like to order custom attire, visit umich.shopoakhalli.com.
Where could my family and friends stay when they join me for 2020 Spring Commencement?
Visit Destination Ann Arbor for a list of local hotels.
Where could my family/friends and I eat lunch or dinner following the 2020 Spring Commencement?
Visit Destination Ann Arbor for a list of local restaurants.
Are Masters and PhD graduates welcome at the 2020 Commencement?
Yes! All 2020 University of Michigan graduates are welcome to attend.
Are U-M Flint and U-M Dearborn graduates welcome at the 2020 Commencement?
Yes! All 2020 University of Michigan graduates are welcome to attend.
May Winter 2019 graduates attend the 2020 Commencement?
Yes!
What are the Covid requirements for attendance?
Effective March 14, 2022, masking will be optional in most indoor spaces on campus including in offices, residence halls and at athletic events. It is expected that all individuals of the U-M community and guests stay home when they are not feeling well (do not attend work, class, gatherings or events) and individuals are expected to continue to use ResponsiBLUE and ResponsiBLUE Guest as a daily symptom checker.
Additionally, neither proof of vaccination nor recent negative test are required for attendance at this event.