CAMPUS LIFE

Graduation celebration to take place in May 2021

The Washtenaw Community College 2020 Graduation Salute was posted on YouTube after 2020 commencement was cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic | Washtenaw Community College

by HEIDE OTTO
Contributor

A virtual graduation salute is scheduled to air at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 21. A commencement parade will take place on campus from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 22.

Graduates need to register by Friday April 23, 2021 to take part in the commencement parade.

Kimberly Hurns, the Executive VP of Instructional and Academic affairs at Washtenaw Community College, wants to make sure that the graduation classes of 2020 and 2021 are celebrated.

“First and foremost when we made the decision in the spring to cancel graduation, out of all the decisions we made last year it was one of the most somber,” Hurns said.

Heather Barthell is a 2020 graduate who earned an Associate Degree in technical writing. She stayed in school because of the pandemic, and in Dec. completed a certificate in UX user experience design.

“Everything was on hold until November or December [2020],” Barthell said. “Now I am planning on taking part in the graduation parade. My husband and my son will ride with me.”

Retired Naval Commander Steve Bannow graduated in Dec. 2020 with an associate degree in journalism.

“I’m proud of it. I am glad I did it. I enjoyed the teachers. They did a first-rate job,” Bannow said.

WCC President Rose B. Bellanca introduces the 2020 Graduation Salute | Washtenaw Community College

Hurns explained students will receive a map with stops for photo opportunities, in addition to swag items for graduates.

“It is important that we celebrate our students’ accomplishments,” said Hurns. “We want everyone to participate. That is the reason why the cap and gown is free this year.”

Commencement speeches will mark the beginning of the 2021 virtual graduation salute. To participate, 2021 graduates can submit photos or videos by Sunday May 2, to commemorate their accomplishment.

The Washtenaw Community College 2020 Graduation Salute is posted on YouTube. Hurns said the salute was something she can see becoming a new graduation tradition.

For military cords contact Carol Osborne, Military and Veteran Recruitment and Outreach Coordinator.

“The cords are red, white and blue for honorably discharged or those currently serving,” Osborne said. “It’s our way of showing our appreciation for their dedication to their education and service.”

Osborne can be reached at 734-973-3616 or calosborne@wccnet.edu.