Public Safety Information for 2020 Commencement Activities

Information on COVID-19

March 11, 2020

Updated announcement regarding contingency planning for COVID-19:

On March 10, 2020, the university announced that it would move to an on-line format to replace classroom instruction until April 30. Graduate and professional schools, some of whose academic calendars differ from the undergraduate schools, also will move predominantly to online instruction.

The administration will continually monitor this rapidly changing situation. We will keep you informed as we have additional announcements regarding Commencement-related events.

Regardless of the format of the Commencement ceremony, candidates eligible for degrees will be voted on by the faculties and subsequently by the Board of Trustees on May 16.

Degrees earned in course will be conferred on Sunday, May 17 by each school. The schedule and format of conferrals will be posted on the Commencement website.

We encourage you to continue to check the Commencement website, which will be updated regularly.

The Tufts University Emergency Preparedness website (https://coronavirus.tufts.edu) includes information on Tufts’ COVID-19 planning efforts and links to public health resources including the website of the Centers for Disease Control (http://www.cdc.gov).

March 4, 2020

The University Commencement Office in collaboration with a university-wide team is monitoring the current COVID-19 outbreak. At this time no changes have been made to the schedule of Commencement ceremonies and events.

People in high-risk categories, especially those with compromised immune systems, may wish to consider taking precautionary steps and avoiding large crowds.

We encourage you to continue to check this site, which will be updated regularly.

The Tufts University Emergency Preparedness website includes information on Tufts’ planning efforts and links to public health resources including the website of the Centers for Disease Control.

Receive Tufts Emergency Alerts

Parents, family members and guests who opt in to TuftsAlert will receive emergency alerts during a two-week period at commencement time. Should an issue arise during that time frame--severe weather or other emergency--a text message would be be sent alerting you of the affected campus, the issue, and emergency instructions.

Available in April 2020: To opt in to the system, text the keyword Tufts2020 to phone number 67283. You will receive a welcome text thanking you for joining TuftsAlert for Commencement 2020. Your opt-in subscription for TuftsAlert will be active from the day you subscribe until May 19, 2020.

General Safety Measures

Since the tragic events which took place at the 2013 Boston Marathon, Tufts University has taken steps to increase security for Commencement ceremonies taking place on our campuses.

Our safety and security plans are comprehensive. Some of the actions that we are taking to assure safety and security will be readily apparent, while others will not be. We ask that you take the time to review our suggestions below which are designed to enhance the safety and security of everyone who will attend our events.

Bags, Luggage, Backpacks, and other Large Containers

Attendees are respectfully discouraged from bringing large bags, luggage, backpacks and other large containers to any activities. Attendees are advised that all bags, luggage, back packs and large containers are subject to search. Attendees are further requested not to leave property unattended while attending ceremonies and events.

In the event that unattended property is discovered, it may be inspected in place, removed, and searched for ownership information by university officials.
On the Medford/Somerville campus removed property may be recovered at the Tufts University Police Station, Dowling Hall, first floor, 419 Boston Avenue, Medford Massachusetts. On the Grafton Campus removed property may be recovered at the Tufts University Police Station, 7 Jumbo’s Path, Grafton Massachusetts.

As always, our safety precautions are intended to ensure that these special events run smoothly. We appreciate your assistance as we work to ensure that Commencement 2020 is a joyous occasion for all who are receiving their degrees and those who are celebrating their accomplishments.

Drones and Model Aircraft (Unmanned Aircraft Systems)

Drones and model aircraft are not permitted at any of the commencement ceremonies, or at any other events taking place during commencement weekend.