Commencement 2020
Credit: President Machtley
Bryant announces 2020 Commencement plans; classes to continue online
Apr 17, 2020, by Staff Writer
Learn About Bryant Apply to Bryant
Contact: Cecilia Cooper | Director, Public Relations | ccooper@bryant.edu | 401-232-6932

SMITHFIELD, RI – Bryant University President Ronald K. Machtley has announced that the University’s 157th Undergraduate and Graduate Commencement Ceremonies will be postponed from May 14 and 16 until August 29, 2020, and will be held at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, RI.

In a message to the Bryant community today, Machtley said that due to the continuing threat of the coronavirus pandemic and government health restrictions, it is not possible to reopen campus this spring, and classes will continue online through the end of the academic year.

"In true Bulldog spirit, we have learned new skills that will prepare us for the rapidly changing world in which we now live."

“I have been enormously proud of the way everyone has adapted to the many challenges the pandemic has presented. In true Bulldog spirit, we have learned new skills that will prepare us for the rapidly changing world in which we now live,” said Machtley. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to many of our families and friends who have suffered directly in this pandemic. And, our appreciation goes out to the first responders, healthcare, and law enforcement professionals who risk their lives for us daily.”

At the request of the Bryant University Board of Trustees, President Machtley will serve as Commencement speaker for the 157th graduation celebration. He will also be awarded an Honorary Degree as he departs with the Class of 2020.

Machtley retires as Bryant’s president on June 30, 2020, after 24 years of service. During his successful tenure, he has transformed Bryant from a regional business college to a nationally recognized university. As announced on March 4, 2020, he will be succeeded by economist Ross Gittell, Ph.D., Chancellor of the Community College System of New Hampshire, who begins his term July 1, 2020.

“While Kati and I are so honored to have been with this Bryant Community for the past 24 years, it is now time for a change, an opportunity for us, seniors, and graduate students to move on to the experiences and joys of the next chapters of our lives." 

“While Kati and I are so honored to have been with this Bryant Community for the past 24 years, it is now time for a change, an opportunity for us, seniors, and graduate students to move on to the experiences and joys of the next chapters of our lives,” Machtley reflected. 

The alternate venue was chosen to prevent potential interference from weather and to allow the 1,036 undergraduate and graduate students, along with Bryant faculty, and guests to maintain any social distancing that may be necessary at that time. The Dunkin’ Donuts Center’s capacity is 14,000.

Further Commencement details will be posted at Bryant.edu/Commencement as they become available.

Additional announcements and information regarding academic grading, move-out from the residence halls, as well as room and board rebates are available at the following links:

 

Read More

Related Stories