Update from the Dean Concerning Commencement

Dear Albany Law School Community:

Our graduating students have worked so hard to complete their degrees. They deserve to have a ceremony—to be surrounded, applauded, and celebrated by our entire community. Their families and loved ones deserve to share in the moment.

We will give our students a full Albany Law School Commencement. We are committed to making that happen.

At the same time, it has become clear amid the COVID-19 pandemic that we cannot hold Commencement as scheduled on May 15. Instead, we are postponing Commencement until the fall. We are looking into all dates, venues, and options, and will update the community as soon as we have clarity.

What I can tell you: Our Commencement will have all the bells and whistles. Our graduates will walk in their regalia. Families and friends will be invited. We will laugh, cry, and celebrate together. In person.

Additionally, we will have a virtual awards ceremony in May—date and time to be announced—to recognize those who are receiving Commencement and other end-of-year awards. Stay tuned for more details.

Early in this process, we asked our graduating students for their input. Overwhelmingly they favored an in-person Commencement, at a time when it is safe to gather in public. I agree completely—it is the least we can do. They are overcoming much disruption, recalibrating many expectations, and meeting an incredible number of challenges. I am so proud, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.

I can't wait to celebrate the Class of 2020 with you when the time is right—when we can be together.

All my best,

Alicia Ouellette
President and Dean