Erik J. Bitterbaum (Photo from SUNY Cortland).
SUNY Cortland President Erik J. Bitterbaum sent the following message to students, updating them on details for the upcoming commencement ceremony:
Dear students,
Your dedication during the past year of unprecedented adversity deserves to be recognized. You have all sacrificed for your achievements and persevered despite a pandemic environment that made many typical college experiences impossible. This is especially true for our Class of 2021. That’s why I am happy to share that registration for SUNY Cortland’s Commencement Grad Walk is now open to qualified seniors.
Students may register online through the Commencement tab in myRedDragon. Registration will close at midnight on Thursday, April 29.
Although we are not able to host visitors at this ceremony, I hope our graduating seniors feel a sense of pride if they choose to participate. We certainly are proud of you. This event, which will be streamed live for your families, is a safe way to celebrate your SUNY Cortland achievements in a campus venue.
It is part of our three-pronged approach to this year’s Commencement. A three-day online celebration kicks off on May 12, culminating in a virtual Commencement ceremony at 10 a.m. on May 15. More information is available online.
A few important reminders:
- The Commencement Grad Walk will be held in Lusk Field House on Wednesday, May 12 and Thursday, May 13. Students who participate must wear a face covering and follow physical distancing rules during the event.
- Students must provide their COVID-19 status prior to the event in one of three ways: attend pool testing at the Student Life Center on May 10; upload proof of a negative test through the COVID tab in myRedDragon within 72 hours of your scheduled walk time; or upload proof of a positive COVID-19 test through the COVID tab dated 10 to 90 days from the time of your walk.
- The event will be livestreamed and a professional photographer will be present at the event. More information on how you can purchase photos is available online.
- Students may purchase their cap and gown through The Campus Store. Those who opt not to wear a cap and gown are asked to dress professionally.
- The Commencement webpage includes more details about ways to mark the occasion.
Whether you will graduate in a few weeks or your studies will go on, please continue to be safe and mindful of the wellbeing of your classmates and our neighbors in the Cortland community. Thank you for your hard work and perseverance.
All the best,
Erik J. Bitterbaum
President
