The University of Guelph is making up for lost time.
Three graduating classes will be able to attend ceremonies this month, and will be able to take part in what the University of Guelph is calling the #GradGala, a first-time-ever event for graduates.
The GuelphGala event is taking place on the evening of Thursday, June 23, during Alumni Week, with Alumni Weekend happening June 24-26.
First, the class of 2022 will have their traditional convocation ceremonies June 14-17. Then, the classes of 2020 and 2021 can attend a ceremony on Thursday, June 23. All the ceremonies will be held at the Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre as part of the #GradGala.
This is so graduates from the previous two years can have an in-person graduation experience. Alumni from 2020 and 2021 be able to choose between four different time slots, so they can graduate with friends, no matter what program they were a part of.
“The event is going to be really special and pretty unique among universities in Ontario,” Claire Alexander, associate director, ceremonies and events, said in a news release.
“We are really excited to be able to bring our grads back together for one last celebration of all they accomplished during their time at U of G.”
But the pomp and circumstance of the ceremony is just the beginning.
Those attending will be able to walk the red carpet at the Gryphon Fieldhouse, and stay for the giveaways, photo booths, piano lounge, marathon trivia night and more.
At Peter Clark Hall, a barn-style event will see music, line dancing and mechanical bull rides.
And for those just wanting to catch up with old friends, the university will have quiet spots around the centre, including the Café at the Lookout on the fifth floor.
Alumni can also get the chance to skip the hotel, by booking a night in an on-campus residence.
But if graduates can't make any of the convocation ceremonies this month, the university said they can take part in a ceremony to be held Oct. 10.
