Tuesday, Nov. 3 at 1:08 p.m. President Suzanne Shipley announced via MSU Student Postmaster MSU Texas’s August and December graduates will have their commencement ceremony virtually on December 21.

Shipley cited a spike in COVID-19 cases in the Wichita Falls community and, “the increased dangers of exposure through public events,” as reasons for the change. However, Shipley assured that the graduates would be celebrated with, “as much enthusiasm and excitement as we would have done in person.”

Shipley also announced a commencement photo event on Nov. 18, which will follow university COVID-19 guidelines. Shipley wrote, “August and December candidates will sign up for photo appointments to have their pictures taken in their caps and gowns with the president.”

Shipley finished the message by thanking students for their understanding and stating that she takes, “great pride,” in measures by MSU Texas faculty, staff and students to keep the university community safe.