What will convocation look like this year?
To ensure the safety of our students, faculty, staff, and friends and family, the Physical Sciences Division will conduct its Division-wide Spring 2021 Convocation ceremony entirely virtually. Graduates and their families will receive information about how to access a screening of our virtual Convocation proceedings as we approach graduation. The Divisional ceremony will include:
- Remarks from Dean Olinto
- Presentation of the graduates, including individual slides for students who chose to participate. Dean Lampert will read the names of graduating students
- You will receive a digital PSD-specific graduation program that you can view online and/or download
- An original musical composition by Sérgio Assad, performed by your peers in the Division
Who is invited?
The PSD Divisional Convocation ceremony will be open to the public and can be accessed via the PSD website.
When is this taking place?
The virtual Divisional Convocation will be available to view beginning on June 10, 2021. Individuals can access the virtual ceremony at a time convenient to them. It is not necessary to access the website at a specific time. The Divisional Convocation will remain online to allow for asynchronous viewing for individuals who are not in the same time zone as Chicago.
Is there anything I need to do as a graduate or alum to participate?
Yes, you should complete the RSVP form to be individually recognized at the Divisional Convocation:
- Form for current students graduating in Spring 2021 or Summer 2021
- Form for alumni who graduated in Summer 2020, Autumn 2020, or Winter 2021
Can I physically pick up my diploma?
No. The Registrar will mail diplomas to Spring 2021 PSD graduates. This is likely to remain the same for Summer 2021 graduates. You should make sure that your diploma mailing address in my.uchicago.edu is an address you can access for approximately one month after Convocation.
Can my family and friends participate?
Your family and friends are welcome to watch the virtual Divisional Convocation ceremony and download a copy of the PSD Convocation program.
When is my degree conferred?
Degrees will be conferred on June 9, 2021.
Is participation required?
No, participation is not required, but it is encouraged. Students who do not choose to participate will have their names listed along with all other graduates at the conclusion of the video presentation and their names will be included in the PSD Convocation program.
Should I buy regalia? How do I do that?
You are welcome to purchase regalia and can do so through the University of Chicago bookstore.
Do I need to be in Chicago to participate?
No. You do not need to be physically present in any specific place to participate in the 2021 Divisional Convocation.
Will I be able to participate if I’m in a different time zone?
Yes. The video recording will remain available online so individuals in various time zones can access it at a time convenient for them.
Is there a program?
The PSD will provide a digital Division-specific program. The University will create a program for its University-wide Convocation.