AMHERST, N.Y. -- To ensure the health and safety of the campus community, Daemen College’s undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies scheduled for Aug. 15 have been moved to a virtual format.

President Gary Olson announced the change from in-person to virtual ceremonies in a recent video message to students, faculty, and staff. He noted that Daemen had hoped to still have in-person ceremonies for the Class of 2020 by postponing commencement from the original date in May to August.

“While planning for the in-person ceremony, we have simultaneously been preparing for a virtual commencement so that we could pivot if need be,” said Olson. “After discussing this with a number of local, state, and higher education officials, it seems the prudent thing to do to move to a virtual format given the pandemic and uncertainties of our time.”

Acknowledging that students may be disappointed with the decision, Olson assured campus members that every effort is being made to “make this the most memorable commencement we have ever had.”

Planning is ongoing for the virtual ceremonies, which will include many special elements and interactive aspects. Updates on Daemen’s commencement will be provided to the campus community in the coming weeks.