The Curry College Class of 2021, understands the difficult parameters we have been tasked with due to Covid-19. While this virus continues to be unprecedented we want to encourage careful and thoughtful decision-making in any endeavor the college tackles. The aim of this petition is to start the planning process of an in-person graduation for the class of 2021.

On February 11th, 2021, Curry College sent out an email stating its decision to move on with a virtual graduation for the Class of 2021 and 2020. Curry College stated that their decision was based on CDC guidelines and State health official’s protocols. Yet, this decision was also made without the knowledge of any of the members of the class of ‘21 and ‘20. On this same day, Northeastern University announced their plan to move forward with an in-person graduation at a Boston venue on May 8th over the course of two days. With an average class size of 2800 students, Northeastern has stated “[they] have been in contact with city and state officials about projected gathering limits and other planning parameters...” (David Madigan- Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, 2021). Compared to Curry College’s Senior class which stands at approximately 600 students; It is difficult to understand why one school can successfully begin to plan and execute an in-person graduation while the other opts for a virtual commencement 3 months before the projected graduation date. 

We want to be clear that this petition is a display of support from the Curry College community and their families to hold an in-person graduation this upcoming May. Members of the Class of 2021 want to work with the school to host a safe event following health and safety protocols to allow the graduating class to walk across the commencement stage. The Class of 2021 has experienced a difficult journey, and not having this important milestone would be a devastating blow to many in the class. 

The Class of 2021 thanks you for your support!