Herkimer College prepares for virtual 2020 Commencement

Herkimer County Community College will conduct a virtual commencement ceremony on Friday, May 15 at 4 p.m.

“We understand and empathize that not having a traditional ceremony is a disappointment for our students their families and friends, as well as the entire campus community,” President Cathleen McColgin said in a statement to the campus community. “We are planning an inspiring event that draws on our Herkimer College traditions, and perhaps starts some new ones too.”

The ceremony will be a mix of live and recorded speeches. Graduates were sent caps and gowns, honors stoles and cords, and were asked to submit photos of themselves wearing their regalia. These photos will be displayed as the graduates’ names are announced. There are 428 graduates and candidates for associate degrees and certificates.

Chairwoman of the College Board of Trustees Isabella Crandall will preside over the ceremony. President Cathleen McColgin will present several awards and confer degrees with assistance from Provost Michael Oriolo and Dean of Students Donald Dutcher. Associate Professor of Computer Science Randolph Baker will represent the faculty as macebearer.

Cassandra Dolan ’20, of Rome, NY, will sing the national anthem. Reverend Sean O’Brien of St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Rome, NY, and a 1985 graduate of Herkimer College, will deliver the invocation and benediction. The student speech will be delivered by Julie Anne Peck ’20 of Gouverneur, NY.

Remarks will be provided by Student Government President Briana Nicole Hoskins ’20, of Sicklerville, NJ; Academic Senate President April Harris; Herkimer County Legislature Chair Vincent J. Bono; SUNY Chancellor Kristina Johnson; and several elected officials.

President and CEO of Arc Herkimer Kevin Crosley will be awarded the SUNY Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters. The SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence will be awarded to Kristen Rose Purcell ’20 of Sauquoit, NY.

Links to view the ceremony live are available at www.herkimer.edu/commencement. A recording will be available later for viewing and download.