SJC Long Island for the first time since 2003 will host each of its commencement ceremonies on campus in Patchogue on Friday, June 4.
More than 1,000 students will earn their degrees as part of SJC Long Island’s Class of 2021, with nearly 800 students attending seven in-person ceremonies starting between 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Members of the campus’ Class of 2020 — who were unable to celebrate during an in-person commencement due to the dangerous conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic — were invited to participate in this year’s ceremonies, as well.
The in-person commencement events are closed to the public, and only registered attendees may participate.
Graduation celebrations kick off the night before, with a virtual Toast to the Graduates at 7 p.m. hosted by the Office of Student Involvement, Leadership, and Intercultural Engagement. The event will serve as a way to acknowledge all the accomplishments of this remarkable group of St. Joseph’s College seniors, who overcame perhaps the most challenging year of their lives while preparing to graduate.
“Due to New York state COVID-19 restrictions on capacity, this kick-off event allows us to acknowledge and celebrate the graduating Class of 2021 and all they’ve accomplished with those who cannot be in attendance on commencement day,” said Shantey Hill, vice president for Student Life and Campus Services.
Those registered to attend a commencement ceremony, including graduates, will need to submit proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test, and they must fill out a health screening questionnaire before they arrive on campus. Face masks and social distancing are mandatory at the events.
Click here for more information about SJC Long Island’s annual commencement exercises.
