Due to the rapidly changing situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges and universities, including Stevenson University, have transitioned to online learning in place of face-to-face classes. As a result, many seniors like myself will miss out on the many events and traditions that soon-to-be graduates look forward to after a long four years of hard work. Unfortunately, one of those precious moments that may be impacted is commencement. Because of the evolving pandemic and concerns regarding large gatherings, changing the venue to an outdoor one, rather than enclosed, could provide more peace of mind for attendees and lessen the risk to everyone’s health. Graduates could be spaced out with three to four chairs in-between them and guests could do the same in the bleachers. Additionally, the commencement could be broken up into sections that would allow for less students and their guests to be in close contact with one another. This is a moment that each and every student looks forward to and deserves to take part in. This is an unprecedented situation, and one that the University has handled well. However, it should not be something that allows our community to suffer from the loss of such an essential part of every students’ academic journey. Therefore, I ask that you please join me in petitioning for an outdoor commencement for the Class of 2020.