Ada, Ohio - All Ohio Northern University Commencements on May 8 and May 9 will move indoors due to an unseasonably inclement weather forecast.
“When we made the decision to hold in-person commencements outdoors, rain or shine, that made sense until a few days ago when the forecast for Sunday, May 9, predicted very steady wet and cold conditions could negatively impact both ceremonies on that day. Obviously, it was time to reconsider ‘rain or shine,’” explains President Daniel DiBiasio.
With the approval of the Kenton Hardin Health Department and consistent with the guidance described in Responsible RestartOhio Graduation Ceremonies, the University will hold all four commencements indoors in the ONU King Horn Sports Center Field House.
“The health and safety of the ONU community will continue to be our top priority as we celebrate with our graduates and their families,” says DiBiasio.
As originally planned, all guests will be seated in four-person pods. A ticket is required for each guest. COVID-19 protocols will be in place for the entirety of the event. Attendees are asked to wear a mask and maintain social distancing throughout each ceremony.
Important reminders for FAMILIES:
• Remember your printed ticket and masks.
• Doors will open 90 minutes prior to the ceremony and seating will be first come, first served.
King Horn Sports Center is located on West Lincoln Avenue. Attendees should drive to the King Horn parking lot entrance off of West Lincoln Avenue. Parking attendants will direct guests to available spaces.
A link to the live stream of each ceremony will be available for those who are not able to attend at onu.edu, and the recordings will remain available on ONU's YouTube channel.
Commencement schedule:
Saturday, May 8
9 a.m. - Law Commencement Ceremony for the classes of 2020 and 2021 in the ONU Sports Center Field House.
1:30 p.m. - Pharmacy Commencement Ceremony for the class of 2021 in the ONU Sports Center Field House.
Sunday, May 9
9 a.m. - Dicke College of Business Administration (including MSA) and T.J. Smull College of Engineering in the ONU Sports Center Field House.
1:30 p.m. - Getty College of Arts & Sciences in the ONU Sports Center Field House.
For May 23 commencement ceremonies, a final location will be determined closer to that date.