Penn State postpones commencement ceremonies

Penn State University announced Wednesday that it is postponing all spring commencement ceremonies.

The university said that it is taking the precaution in order to fight the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. The school is exploring other options for celebrating the achievements of their students, according to a statement.

The announcement appears to include the entire PSU system, which enrolls about 100,000 students at 20 campuses throughout Pennsylvania.

“Graduation is a significant milestone for our students and while it may not be the same as our traditional ceremony, we are committed to finding the best way possible to recognize the achievements of our graduates,” said Penn State President Eric J. Barron.

Federal and state officials have been calling to restrict gatherings of groups of more than 10 people to stem the spread of the virus.

Penn State also has extended the remote learning for all classes through at least the spring semester. Examinations will also be administered remotely.

The university had previously planned to resume in-person classes in April.

The school said that there are no known cases of coronavirus at Penn State.

The Penn State faculty senate is also asking the school to consider allowing students to request courses be graded as satisfactory or unsatisfactory, rather than with a letter grade, during the spring 2020 semester.

The University of Pittsburgh also postponed all in-person spring commencement ceremonies at the main campus in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, school chancellor announced Tuesday.