NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts announced that the spring graduation ceremony will be held virtually this year with COVID-19 concerns.

 

In a letter to the MCLA community Friday, President James Birge said with continued uncertainty with COVID-19 restrictions and the delay in delivering the vaccine, MCLA has decided to move forward with a virtual ceremony for both the Class of 2020 and Class of 2021.

 

"I want to extend my gratitude to all of you for adapting to the major disruption and challenges that have been presented to our community in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic," he wrote. "This has been a difficult time for everybody and I greatly appreciate the understanding, flexibility, and patience that I have witnessed from students, families, and dedicated faculty, staff, and alumni."

 

He wrote that there were hopes to hold a traditional in-person May Ceremony however with the aforementioned uncertainty, MCLA has decided to put resources towards a "high quality" virtual ceremony.

 

"Commencement is the highlight of the year for our graduating students and the entire MCLA community looks forward to celebrating you on this important day," he wrote. "More information on these ceremonies is forthcoming."