Students disappointed after graduation ceremonies called across Georgia over coronavirus

ATLANTA — College students throughout the state are feeling disappointed after several universities have canceled or postponed spring graduation ceremonies.

Channel 2’s Dave Huddleston was there when grad student Phylicia Stewart learned her Georgia State University graduation was canceled because of the coronavirus.

“It’s very disappointing,” Stewart said.

Huddleston also spoke to University of Georgia senior Ryan Stubbs via FaceTime. The Canton native was also looking forward to graduation.

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“I’ve been working really hard these last four years to try and graduate, get to that moment when we walk across the stage, but it’s for the safety of all the students, which makes sense,” Stubbs said.

Most of Georgia’s colleges and universities have canceled spring graduation. A letter from Georgia State said it will try and find another way to honor the students.

Stewart said she appreciates that but “it’s not the same as being awarded in May after a hard semester.”

University System of Georgia officials say each individual school will decide the best way to honor the graduates.

Because of the coronavirus, all classes are now online. But all eligible seniors and grad students will graduate and receive their diplomas.

Stubbs said he’s sure his family will still want to celebrate.

“I’m sure we’ll throw some sort of party, at least,” Stubbs said.

University officials said they will contact all eligible seniors to let them know when they have planned a ceremony this summer, or maybe not until December.

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