LAS CRUCES, N.M. – New Mexico State University has said it will hold limited in-person commencement events in May in addition to its previously planned virtual ceremony for its spring graduates.
Events will be held at Aggie Memorial Stadium in multiple sessions to comply with social distancing and capacity guidelines, the Las Cruces Sun-News reported Tuesday. Tickets will be required and students can have no more than two guests in attendance. Masks will be required for all graduates, volunteers and guests.
The in-person event will be broadcast so people unable to attend can participate in both ceremonies. The virtual celebration on May 15 will take place regardless of in-person event plans.
Commencement activities for the university’s branch campuses will be determined by each campus.
“We know how much our students want an opportunity to celebrate together as they reach the life-changing milestone of completing their degrees,” NMSU President John Floros said. “Our commencement team is now hard at work planning an event that will allow us to celebrate together safely.”
The announcement came after discussions and guidance from the state Department of Health and the state Higher Education Department.
In-person event details are currently being finalized and additional information is expected to be announced, university officials said.
