Topeka, Kan. – Washburn University and Washburn Tech will both be hosting in-person commencement ceremonies this fall. Washburn is committed to allowing students to invite family and friends to celebrate with them as they cross the graduation stage.
Washburn Tech Commencement
Washburn Tech will lead off the fall ceremonies with a commencement ceremony at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 16 in Lee Arena on the Washburn University campus. Safety precautions tied to the Covid-19 pandemic will be followed.
“We are incredibly proud of our students who completed their programs during these unprecedented times,” said Dr. Gary Bayens, dean, Washburn Tech. "They have the knowledge and skills that are valued in the workforce and will fill important roles in our community and around the region.”
Commencement is open to the public, although face masks are required regardless of vaccination status. A live stream of commencement will be provided on Washburn Tech’s YouTube channel so that family and friends, unable to attend in person, may watch as a loved one is honored. In addition, a professional photographer will be on hand to photograph each graduate.
Pinning ceremonies for practical nursing graduates are scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 16 in the Lower Level Conference Center on the Washburn Tech campus at 5724 SW Huntoon. Daytime students will be recognized at 1 p.m. A ceremony honoring evening students will begin at 3 p.m.
Washburn University Commencement
The ceremonies for Washburn University will take place on the following two nights – December 17 and December 18 to provide sufficient space for graduates and their guests while still following Covid-19 protocols.
“We are truly excited to celebrate with our students and to welcome Washburn’s December graduation ceremonies back to Lee Arena,” said Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, vice president of academic affairs.
The addition of a second ceremony in the fall will allow the university to remove restrictions on the number of guests each student is allowed to invite, Mazachek said.
The commencement ceremony dates and locations for Washburn University will be:
College of Arts and Sciences
• December 17, 5:00 pm, Lee Arena
School of Applied Studies, School of Business, School of Nursing, School of Law
• December 17, 7:30 pm, Lee Arena
In addition, the School of Nursing Pinning Ceremony will be held on December 17, 3:30 pm in White Concert Hall
For all ceremonies and in all facilities, Washburn will follow Shawnee County guidance and health orders regarding COVID-19 safety and will adapt our plans to new developments if they arise.
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For further information, contact:
Patrick M. Early, APR
Director of Public Relations
Telephone: (785) 670-1711
Cell: (717) 385-1119
Email: patrick.early@washburn.edu
