On August 8th, Mercer University is planning on holding in-person commencement ceremonies for the class of 2020 across their multiple schools and campuses. In the middle of a pandemic due to COVID-19 and a rise in cases, Mercer is refusing to acknowledge any graduates that do not physically attend the commencement ceremony. This decision directly affects students who are at risk, live with at risk family members, or are currently infected with the COVID-19 virus - basically, denying them the celebration of their collegiate journey. Since there are many students who feel that it is safe to bring their physical body to campus and partake in the ceremonies, there will be an influx of people into the Macon area, possibility bringing another wave of the virus to the beautiful, quaint city. Mercer should focus on de-incentivizing attendance by considering a hybrid graduation - a win-win for everyone involved. Those who want to participate in commencement but not be there physically can still celebrate as they would have if there had not been a dangerous pandemic afflicting our nation. Those who really want to participate physically can. Reducing the number of physical bodies in attendance will help slow down any spread to the Mercer faculty, student body, and Macon community.

While Mercer plans on limiting the amount of people allowed to attend their indoor ceremony, screening for fever and making sure that everyone is wearing face coverings is simply not enough. It is estimated that the majority of spread occurs through asymptomatic carriers of the virus, who would have no fever. Checking for masks at the door ensures just that, that people have masks at the door. Given the nature of the consensus on mask-wearing in America, attendees can simply remove the mask once inside of the indoor arena.

This option is the most responsible and feasible choice. It is also the safest. If Mercer wants their students and graduate to “major in changing the world,” Mercer should lead by example.