A graduate holds flowers alongside a woman holding a UofG signMany graduates look forward to the moment they cross the stage at convocation as an important milestone in their academic life as well as an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. This fall, the University of Guelph will bring that moment to them.

U of G convocation organizers are holding an event called #GuelphGrad on Tour that will bring the celebration of convocation directly to the Class of 2020.

Between Tuesday, Sept. 28 and Saturday, Oct. 3, U of G ambassadors will visit Mississauga, Burlington, Toronto and Guelph to bring a convocation-like experience to fall 2020 graduates as well as spring 2020 graduates who had their in-person convocation ceremonies postponed.

Graduates will be invited to capture their convocation moment at an outdoor celebration space, where they will walk across a red carpet to have photos taken with one family member or a friend against U of G backgrounds.

“While we are disappointed that we cannot proudly celebrate our graduates on our beautiful campus this fall, we are very excited about bringing the Gryphon spirit to them through the #GuelphGrad on Tour event,” said Ray Darling, University registrar. “They will be receiving the VIP treatment from our U of G ambassadors.”

Safety of the U of G community is the top priority and physical distancing will be emphasized throughout. Each grad will be asked to register via the Guelph Grad website for a time slot in each location and fill out and print off a U of G and “Ontario COVID-19 Self-Assessment” screening form before arrival. 

Upon arrival, Guelph grads will handed a U of G-branded face covering and a one-time-use gown and hood and asked to maintain physical distancing by following markers on the ground.

U of G ambassadors equipped with personal protective equipment will help to take their photos against University-themed backdrops, a giant U of G sign and more. A professional photographer will also take a complimentary photo in front of the official convocation Portico backdrop.

In addition to #GuelphGrad on Tour, the University will host a virtual convocation ceremony for fall 2020 graduates on Oct. 28. Information and details on this event are forthcoming. Check the GuelphGrad website for updates.