Commencement 2021

Dear Skidmore Community,

We are pleased to share that Skidmore College plans to hold commencement exercises for the Class of 2021 on Saturday, May 22, at an in-person event open to the entire senior class, provided that state and local health and safety guidelines allow. The location will be determined based on circumstances and state guidance in the weeks ahead. 

However, due to current and anticipated restrictions and legal limits on large gatherings, as well as health and safety considerations, in-person attendance by guests, families and friends will unfortunately not be possible. Based on what we know now, this is the safest and most feasible way to hold the graduation ceremony for the entire senior class, which was the overwhelming preference indicated by students. 

We are excited and encouraged by the opportunity to celebrate in person, but we also acknowledge that the moment will be bittersweet without the physical presence of family, friends and others who have supported the Class of 2021 throughout their journey at Skidmore. 

Any student who is unable to attend Commencement will still receive their degree as scheduled. We will also work with our seniors who are studying remotely to make them feel as involved as possible. 

To ensure that all those who wish to share in the outstanding achievements of our graduates have the opportunity to do so, the College will livestream the entire Commencement ceremony. Specific details about the format of the ceremony and viewing options will be shared with the campus community and posted on the Commencement 2021 webpage. 

While we continue to hope that circumstances improve as we make our way toward spring, we have all come to realize during this pandemic that conditions, guidance and legal restrictions can change rapidly. The College is carefully monitoring health conditions and will be prepared to quickly make adjustments should a shift in plans be required.  

Many thanks to the Class of 2021 and their families for their patience and understanding as we worked to determine the best possible way to hold Commencement this year. More details will be forthcoming in the weeks ahead.   

Sincerely, 

Marc C. Conner
President 

Cerri Banks
Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs 

Michael T. Orr
Dean of Faculty and Vice President for Academic Affairs 

Raymi Ramirez '21
Senior Class President 

Rachael Borthwick '21
Student Government Association President