Class of 2020, Baruch College was set to celebrate a quintessential moment of your academic journey - graduation. However, the global pandemic had other plans, and the traditional pomp and circumstance had to be replaced with a virtual ceremony, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of this remarkable class.
The canceled commencement didn't dampen the spirit of the graduates. Instead, it added a unique chapter to their stories, a testament to their unwavering dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite the physical distance, the class of 2020 remained connected, supporting each other, and looking forward to the future with optimism.
Planning for the Unplanned
When the pandemic hit, Baruch College swiftly switched gears, embracing technology to deliver a memorable commencement experience. The virtual ceremony allowed graduates, their families, and faculty to participate, bringing the Baruch community closer than ever before, in a unique way.
With the support of alumni, faculty, and staff, the college ensured that despite the lack of a traditional ceremony, the class of 2020 would still have a moment to celebrate their achievements, marked by the conferral of their degrees and the delivery of a commencement address.
The Virtual Graduation Experience
The virtual ceremony took place on the scheduled date, May 22, 2020. It was a meticulously planned event, broadcasting through various platforms, allowing graduates and their families to watch and celebrate in the safety and comfort of their homes. The video included pre-recorded speeches, student stories, and testimonials from faculty and staff.
The ceremony really came alive during the roll call, as graduates' names and unique messages were displayed on the screen. It was a moment of joy and relief, as each graduate heard their name called, marking the official end of their academic journey at Baruch College.
Reflections and Farewells
Throughout the ceremony, graduates and faculty shared their reflections on the unconventional graduation experience. Some took it as a chance to embrace change, while others considered it a lesson on facing unexpected challenges with determination. The common thread was the gratitude for the Baruch community's support, even from miles apart.
Faculty and staff also shared words of encouragement and pride, lauding the resilience and adaptability shown by the class of 2020 in the face of this medical emergency. They praised the graduates' perseverance in academics and their commitment to planetary issues, global challenges, and social justice.
The Spirit of Baruch Lives On
The Class of 2020, in true Baruch spirit, recognized that despite this unconventional ending, they were ready to embrace the future. They chose to see the glass half-full, looking at this experience as an opportunity to grow and adapt.
With this newfound resilience and determination, the class of 2020 is prepared to take the world by storm. They're eager to apply their unique Baruch education in real-world scenarios, armed with the adaptability learned through an unconventional final semester.
The Future Awaits
For many in the Class of 2020, this was just an interruption, not a stop. They're ready to build a future that reflects Baruch's core values of excellence, opportunity, and access. They're looking forward to making a difference, whether it's in their communities or the wider world.
As they move forward, they're guided by the words of Baruch's interim president, Dr. David Sp romm: "Your Baruch experience has not ended, but begun, providing you with the tools to move flexibly, instinctively, and wisely in the world." Indeed, the spirit of Baruch lives on in every graduate of the class of 2020.