On May 17, the University of New Haven will host the spring commencement ceremony at the Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater. The College of Arts and Sciences, School of Health Sciences and the Tagliatela College of Engineering will commence at 11 a.m.; the Pompea College of Business and the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences will commence at 4 p.m. There will also be a live stream of the events for those who cannot attend in person.

In order to attend, students and guests must provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, a negative test or proof of infection in the last 90 days. Students and guests can read the full list of requirements on the university’s website.

According to class of 2021 president and criminal justice and legal studies double major Amanda Pappas, the university is one of a few institutions that is able to have a commencement where students can actually walk across a stage.

Similar to past years, there will be professional photography and graduates will be required to keep their masks on throughout the whole ceremony, including for their photo when they cross the stage.

Pappas also said that there will be events lined up for Senior Week. “Seniors will be invited to participate in commencement week activities in collaboration with graduate students,” she said. “The final schedule has not been disclosed yet, but a lot of thought went into the schedule and I am so excited to execute the plan.”

Senior criminal justice major Ciara Gallagher shared her thoughts on an in-person graduation, “I feel on the fence about having an in-person graduation,” she said. “I’m grateful to have one and not have my family watch through a screen but part of me still feels uneasy due to COVID[-19.]”

Gallagher and Pappas also reflected on their time at the university. Pappas said, “I am forever grateful for UNewHaven because I really feel I received the best education, mentorships, experiences and guidance. As Class President specifically, I hope that I make the class proud with commencement and have made the class proud in general over the past few years.”

“Graduating makes me feel relieved and depressed at the same time,” said Gallagher. “While I’m excited to move on and start working in my field, I am also sad that I’m leaving the friends I’ve made along the way. I’m going to miss seeing everyone so consistently.”

For more information about the event, visit the spring commencement website.