SMC Commencement Celebration 2021

March 16, 2021

Dear Saint Mary’s Students,

I know you have been awaiting news about our upcoming May 2021 Commencement ceremony, and we are eager to celebrate your outstanding achievements and journey at Saint Mary’s College. 

The Reality of Our Year

Although we are encouraged by the increased pace of vaccine distribution and the rapidly improving health conditions in the Bay Area, there is still considerable uncertainty related to emerging COVID variants and vaccine distribution. As a result, we cannot be certain that large, in-person gatherings will be safe in late May. 

We understand that this news may be disappointing, and Saint Mary’s is saddened that we cannot offer a traditional Commencement ceremony this year. We recognize what a monumental event this is for you and your families, but we think our new program will be meaningful and exciting. 

Our Plans for Commencement:

The hybrid Commencement celebration includes both a CARmencement (drive-through) and a Virtual live-streaming event (for family members unable to attend in person).

The celebration is planned for the weekend of May 21–23, 2021.

CARmencement
Saint Mary’s will host a CARmencement: a parade-like celebration through campus, including individual graduate recognition and photo opportunities in front of the Chapel for the classes of 2020 and 2021. 

Students will have the opportunity to exit their cars, walk across the stage, hear their names read aloud, and pose for an individual photo in front of the Chapel.

The Virtual Event
The Commencement celebration will be live-streamed on our Commencement webpage. Details about speakers and other activities for Commencement will be announced as we get closer to the event.

Dates to remember:

  • Undergraduate Class of 2020:  Friday, May 21
  • Undergraduate Class of 2021:  Saturday, May 22 
  • Graduate and Professional Studies 2020–2021:  Sunday, May 23

Please keep your eyes on your Saint Mary’s email for updates to follow. We will send information about how to order your regalia, rings, and graduation announcements, along with other essential details to help you celebrate this momentous occasion!

We know you and your family have been looking forward to the Commencement celebration for years. And we also understand the many sacrifices you have had to make throughout this pandemic. Through our creative planning, we will make this a joyful and meaningful celebration that honors your extraordinary work at Saint Mary’s College. 

Sincerely,
 

James A. Donahue
President