ASU holds virtual graduation amid coronavirus pandemic
PHOENIX - In a normal year, graduates would cross the stage and shake hands with colleagues and professors, turning the tassels on their caps.
But in the era of the coronavirus, Arizona State University graduates still earned their degrees, but with a virtual commencement serving as a substitute for a traditional ceremony.
"Around this time of year in the spring, thousands of graduates step out of their universities and into the real world wondering what the future hold for them," said Luis Alberto Moreno, former president of the ASU Thunderbird School of Global Management. "This year, things are very different."
With more than 16,400 graduates, ASU's largest class in the university's history streamed its commencement on YouTube and the school's website.
"I can't tell you how pleased I am to offer my congratulations to the class of 2020," said Lonnie G. Bunch III, ASU secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. "I wish I could be there with you in person, but regardless of my presence, I want you to know how excited I am about the possibilities in front of you."
So graduates, along with their loved ones, could be apart of their big day.
"I hereby confer upon each and every one of you the appropriate degree that you've earned and welcome you to the company of doer and scholas, people that will make big things happen. Congratulations, graduates," said ASU President Michael Crow.
In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
MAP: Worldwide interactive Coronavirus case data
MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code
FULL COVERAGE: fox10phoenix.com/coronavirus
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
How it spreads, symptoms, prevention, treatment, FAQ
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus
Arizona COVID-19 Response
Public resources, FAQ, webinars
https://www.azdhs.gov/coronavirus
On CoronavirusNOW.com, you'll find extensive coverage about COVID-19, including breaking news from around the country, exclusive interviews with health officials, and informative content from a variety of public health resources.
RELATED: