UDC CONFERS DEGREES IN A VIRTUAL SALUTE TO GRADUATES

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 11, 2020

Contact: John Gordon, Jr., Director of Communications 202.274.5998 (o); 202.701.8805 (c); john.gordon@udc.edu

WASHINGTON, DC— To commemorate what would have been graduation this past weekend, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) presented a virtual tribute to salute members of the graduating Class of 2020. The website presentation went live at 10 a.m. Saturday, which is the same time commencement would have begun at the Washington Convention Center. A more traditional, in-person version of the ceremony has been postponed until December, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the 30-minute “Firebirds Forever” video salute, President Ronald Mason conferred degrees on 794 graduates who have completed requirements across UDC’s six schools and colleges. Sixteen of those graduates completed their degrees with a perfect cumulative average of 4.0.

The video included messages from the District’s Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes-Norton, UDC’s board chair Christopher Bell, and each of the University’s academic deans. In his brief presentation, President Mason congratulated graduates on their accomplishments, and challenged them to take on a changing world.

“This pandemic is changing the world in ways that no one could have imagined,” said Mason. “You are the first class of UDC graduates faced with building this new world. Be fortified, be strong, and know that you are prepared for the challenges before you.”

Chief Academic Officer Lawrence T. Potter, Jr., explained that creating the video was extremely important for the University to celebrate the Class of 2020 for their accomplishments under unprecedented circumstances.

“While no one could have anticipated a virtual celebration, I want our graduates and the faculty to know we are excited to recognize and celebrate their mutual accomplishments,” said Potter. “This class has shown incredible resiliency, and I couldn’t be prouder. It is disappointing to be unable to express that in person, but we found a way to properly recognize and celebrate the fantastic achievements of the Class of 2020. This is a momentous occasion!”

To view the “Firebirds Forever” video salute, visit
UDC Website, https://www.udc.edu/commencement/
Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/UofDC
UDC YouTube, https://www.youtube.com/user/UniversityofDC