Palomar College is celebrating graduates by putting a new twist on graduation by hosting a virtual commencement ceremony for the 2020 graduates. If chosen to participate in the celebration, students can upload a photo and RSVP to the commencement ceremony by May 22, 2020.

The RSVP is quick and asks what type of degree will be received, any academic majors/programs, student ID number, and for any involvement with student organizations. Students have an option to add a photo if wanted.

In the virtual celebration, the graduates’ names will be said alongside the photo of choice or the Palomar College logo.

“The students in Palomar’s class of 2020 have been working hard toward their degrees for some time and we intend to honor their hard work, as we always do at this time of year,” said Acting Superintendent/President Dr. Jack Kahn. “We look forward to celebrating our graduates, their success, and their achievements in this one-of-a-kind format.”

When the time comes there will be a recorded ceremony, produced by Palomar College’s Television Department (PCTV). It will be accessible with an online link that will be sent directly to the Palomar e-mail. The release date of the recording has not been confirmed.

A cap and gown are not required for the self-chosen photo for the virtual ceremony. If a cap and gown would like to be purchased for any other reason, they can be purchased through the Palomar College Bookstore. To access the cap and gown shop, students should click shop and select graduation or simply search graduation in keywords.

A virtual commencement leadership or service award application for 2019-2020 graduates is still available. Two $500 scholarships will be given out during the ceremony. Applications are due the same day as the RSVP on May 22, 2020.

Featured image by Niko Holt/The Telescope