(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – April 27, 2020) SUNY Empire State College announced today that all June commencement ceremonies have been canceled due to COVID-19-related public health precautions. SUNY Empire was slated to confer 782 associate, 3,402 bachelor's, and 349 master’s degrees, five undergraduate certificates, and 51 graduate certificates.

SUNY Empire will not let this milestone go unacknowledged and is developing virtual celebrations and a series of online congratulatory messages and speeches. Specifics will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Although we cannot be together with students, we will find meaningful ways to celebrate their accomplishments, and wish the class of 2020 all the best,” said SUNY Empire State College President Jim Malatras. “We share in our students’ disappointment, but the health and well-being of our community is our primary concern.”

The following commencement ceremonies have been canceled. SUNY Empire State College remains committed to rescheduling in the fall, but may adjust the number of ceremonies.

Sunday, June 7: Rochester

Sunday, June 14: Albany

Friday, June 19: New York City

Friday, June 19: Harry Van Arsdale Jr. Center for Labor Studies

Saturday, June 20: Long Island

About SUNY Empire State College

SUNY Empire State College educates students at any stage of life with a personalized learning experience delivered online, in person, or a blend of both. Since 1971, SUNY Empire has empowered students to earn an accredited degree around the demands of a busy lifestyle to advance their personal and professional goals. With world-class faculty, more than 1,300 dedicated mentors to help students tailor their degree programs, and cutting-edge distance learning technology, SUNY Empire delivers a trusted and flexible online college experience grounded in more than 30 New York State locations and seven international sites where students can learn and collaborate in person. Our nearly 50 years as a leader in awarding credit for prior learning and life experience helps students earn a degree faster and at lower cost. To learn more, visit www.esc.edu and follow @SUNYEmpire.