Franklin College moves commencement to October

Franklin College said Friday it will postpone its 2020 commencement ceremony due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Originally scheduled for May 23, it has been rescheduled for Oct. 11, as part of the college’s Homecoming and Alumni Weekend, according to a Franklin College news release.

“So much work is required to prepare for commencement, much of which cannot be done remotely, that it would be logistically impossible to retain that date,” said Kerry Prather, Franklin College president. “Even if we are blessed with an incremental opening of normal societal activities in the coming month, that will certainly not include mass gatherings like commencement.”

Additionally, the college’s baccalaureate service, originally scheduled for May 22, has been rescheduled for May 23. The college will provide a video recording of the traditional baccalaureate service via its website that will include keynote speaker Dr. Michael Gilligan, president emeritus of the Henry Luce Foundation. Gilligan will deliver his address remotely in advance, the news release said.

“We are excited to gather the Class of 2020 and their families with the greater Franklin College family, albeit virtually, to give thanks and celebrate together,” Prather said. “The strength and resilience our seniors have demonstrated at each turn of events this year has been reassuring for the present and inspiring for the future. We are forever proud of them.”