The university-wide commencement ceremony typically held by Columbia University will have a new look this year.
According to reports, Columbia is set to hold “smaller-scale, school-based celebrations” instead of its usual graduation ceremony. The institution shared that the decision was made following discussions with student representatives and comes shortly after weeks of pro-Palestinian and opposing protests on campus, which raised security concerns.
“Our students emphasized that these smaller-scale, school-based celebrations are most meaningful to them and their families,” the Ivy League university said. “They are eager to cross the stage to applause and family pride and hear from their school’s invited guest speakers. As a result, we will focus our resources on those school ceremonies and on keeping them safe, respectful, and running smoothly.”
The school added, “These past few weeks have been incredibly difficult for our community. Just as we are focused on making our graduation experience truly special, we continue to solicit student feedback and are looking at the possibility of a festive event on May 15 to take the place of the large, formal ceremony. We are eager to all come together for our graduates and celebrate our fellow Columbians as they, and we, look ahead to the future.”
Unfortunately, students will now be recognized ” individually alongside their peers” in smaller ceremonies. However, the graduation ceremony is not the only thing affected by the protests. “Class Days” and school ceremonies originally scheduled to take place at the south lawn of the Morningside campus, have been moved to Columbia’s Baker Athletics Complex.
If you’re unaware, Pro-Palestinian protests popped up on campus last month after students set up roughly 50 tents, calling for a Gaza cease-fire and for the university to end their partnership with companies profiting from the war. On April 30th, New York City police officers arrived on campus in full riot gear and forced their way into Hamilton Hall, where protesters had barricaded themselves. Not long after, about 100 arrests were made, which stirred up some tension, leading Columbia President Minouche Shafik to request police assistance on the campus until May 17th.
