Linfield University is celebrating its graduates from the McMinnville campus and Online and Continuing Education program with a mix of virtual and in-person events in May.
The schedule, created by a committee comprised of students, faculty and staff, includes a drive-thru “Carmencement” in-person celebration on Sunday, May 2, as well as a virtual Commencement broadcast on the university’s YouTube channel on Sunday, May 9.
“Completing a college degree is such an important milestone,” President Miles K. Davis said. “We surveyed graduates and so many of them said that they were hoping we could find a way to allow their families to participate in the celebration. We believe we have found a way to do that and to keep everyone safe.”
The Carmencement celebration on May 2 allows graduates to move through separate stations on the McMinnville campus to walk across the stage, receive their diploma, turn their tassel and continue Linfield’s tradition of returning the acorn they received at Convocation during their first-year at Linfield for the next generation of Wildcats to receive in the fall. Friends and families are welcome to accompany their graduates in their vehicles and will have front row seats for these important milestones and photo opportunities.
The virtual Commencement features a keynote address, as well as a roll call of all students graduating with degrees from the McMinnville campus and the university’s Online and Continuing Education program.
Other parts of Commencement Weekend include a virtual Senior Awards Celebration and virtual Baccalaureate, along with the following in-person events:
- Athletic Stole Ceremony
- Lavender Ceremony
- Black Excellence Event
“This class has faced all sorts of challenges – from a pandemic to wildfires to ice storms – and yet they persevered. We needed to find a way to honor their determination and celebrate their unusual college experience. They are a strong and resilient group, and we are proud to soon call them Wildcat alumni.” Davis said.
A virtual Spring Pinning Ceremony for nursing students graduating from the Linfield University-Good Samaritan School of Nursing will take place in late May. More information on this event will be shared later in the spring.
Additional information about all Linfield University commencement ceremonies, including information for visitors, is available at linfield.edu/commencement.