Stetson University Commencement Returns to Spec Martin Memorial Stadium, May 7-9

A photo from a distance of graduates and the Commencement stage in the stadium

Graphic that says 135th Commencement with Stetson seal

Stetson University expects to graduate 682 students at its 135th Commencement ceremonies this weekend at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium, 260 E. Euclid Ave., DeLand.

A photo from a distance of graduates and the Commencement stage in the stadium
Graduates gathered for Commencement at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium in 2018.

Stetson will confer master’s degrees on 83 graduate students from the College of Arts and Sciences, and the School of Business Administration on Friday, May 7, 7 p.m. Stetson will honor 599 undergraduate students at its commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 8, at 9 a.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, May 9, at 9 a.m. Details on each ceremony can be found on the commencement website.

“We are pleased to be able to host commencement at the stadium once again,” said Julie Hunter, director of University Events for Stetson. “Last year, we were able to host commencement on Stetson Green in December, and we are able to increase in-person participation at the stadium.”

On the DeLand campus, students and faculty nominate and vote on the keynote speakers. This year the graduate ceremony keynoters are Casey Williams, College of Arts and Sciences, and Shannon Gryntysz, School of Business Administration. The undergraduate speakers are Taylor Gelb, School of Music, George Alderman, College of Arts and Sciences, and Clyde Tucker, School of Business Administration.

In addition to the students and faculty, Stetson expects 2,800 guests at the stadium over the four ceremonies. Having multiple, ticketed events in a large, outdoor venue helps maximize participation by family and friends at the in-person events. In addition, all ceremonies will be live streamed, so that those who cannot attend in person can participate virtually.

Stetson Athletics logoThe four May ceremonies will occur rain or shine. By scheduling multiple, smaller events over the three days, the university can help ensure physical distancing for attendees. Face coverings must be worn at all times by everyone, and graduates will not shake hands with the university president and other top academic officials as they walk across the stage. Master’s degree candidates will not receive the traditional hooding at their ceremony.

“The health and safety of our graduates, faculty and guests during these ceremonies is our top priority,” Hunter said.

-Sandra Carr