Next month, UNMC will celebrate its 2021 graduates with de-densified, in-person commencement ceremonies at each of its five campuses. Ceremonies in Lincoln, Norfolk, Kearney, Omaha and Scottsbluff are scheduled as follows:
Thursday, May 6
- Lincoln – 9:30 a.m.
- Norfolk – 2 p.m.
- Kearney – 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 8
- Omaha – 9 a.m.
- Scottsbluff/Gering – 3 p.m.
The number of guests permitted per location differs based on the venue size and capacity, local Directed Health Measures (DHMs) and good public health practice. Organizers have accounted for seating to accommodate guests at each location as follows:
- Kearney: Up to 12 guests per graduate
- Lincoln: Up to 16 guests per graduate
- Norfolk: Up to two guests per graduate
- Omaha: Up to four guests per graduate
- Scottsbluff: Up to six guests per graduate
UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, MD, will confer the degrees to candidates from all colleges, and each ceremony will be livestreamed for those who prefer or are unable to attend in person.
“Commencement is an important milestone for our health professions and biomedical graduate studies students,” said Phil Covington, EdD, associate vice chancellor for student success at UNMC. “We look forward to celebrating, safely, with you in May.”
Graduates and their guests should note that:
- Masks must be worn by all attendees, and at all times, inside the venues;
- adequate physical distancing must be followed; and
- individuals should stay home if, on the day of the event, they (or a member of their household) is sick.
UNMC’s commencement team has worked closely with the UNMC Office of Health Security and local county health departments to ensure a safe event.
In 2020, UNMC offered only virtual commencement ceremonies and invited 2020 graduates to participate in future ceremonies. Unfortunately, due to concerns related to the resurgence of cases related to variant COVID strains, UNMC must delay 2020 graduates from participating in the upcoming ceremonies. Instead, 2020 graduates will be allowed to participate at a later date when it is deemed safe to have a larger gathering.
Commencement details will be posted on the commencement website.