Masks Required at all SCCC Graduation Events

LIBERAL —  Mask-wearing is required at all Seward County Community College graduation events. Graduates will be supplied with special “commemorative” masks and all participants and attendees will be expected to wear masks when on campus.

     “We missed our in-person ceremonies last spring, and are incredibly proud to have made it through the entire academic year with in-person options,” said SCCC President Brad Bennett. “The fact that we made it through is largely because of our decision to mandate masks on campus, and really sticking to that decision. The last thing we want at this point is to see a new pandemic surge because of the celebrations we are able to host.”

      Graduation ceremonies begin with the 6 p.m. nursing capping and pinning, including diploma awards, on Friday; two commencement ceremonies are set for 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Saturday; and Kansas GED diplomas will be awarded at 3 p.m. Saturday. All events take place in the Greenhouse gymnasium and require tickets for entry.

     Additional safety measures implemented by the college for graduation weekend include:

• Four separate commencement ceremonies for graduates in different program areas;

• • A two-person guest limit for each graduate;
  • Ticketing to track the number of total attendees in the SCCC Greenhouse Gymnasium;
  • Social distancing measures for graduates and audience members;
  • Clearly marked traffic paths to reduce crowding;
  • No outdoor reception following the ceremonies.

     “Graduation this year definitely feels different than our ceremonies in the past, but we’re just thrilled to be able to honor our Saints graduates,” said SCCC Registrar Alaina Rice, who heads up the planning and implementation of commencement. “Earning that diploma is a huge achievement and we are so proud of them.”

     Bennett noted that all guests will be expected to comply with mask use. College personnel will provide temperature checks at entrance, additional masks if necessary, and escort guests to socially-distanced seating areas.