OSU-OKC to host drive-through event to celebrate graduates

OSU-OKC to host drive-through graduate celebration to recognize students

School officials on hand to congratulate students, pass out tassels, yard signs

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 12, 2020) – Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City will host a drive-through graduate celebration on its campus as a way to recognize its class of 2020.

The drive-through is set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 17, the same day the university’s traditional commencement had been scheduled before the COVID-19 pandemic caused schools around the state to re-think their graduation plans.

Graduates are invited to drive through the school’s main parking lot – on the northern end of campus, 900 N Portland Ave. – to receive congratulations from school leaders, faculty and staff members, as well as graduation tassels and a commemorative yard sign.

The event will include a photo station where graduates can pose for pictures while observing proper social distancing recommendations.

“Celebrating the success of our students is important to us at OSU-OKC,” university President Brad Williams said. “We want to be able to show our graduates appreciation for their hard work – but to do so in a way that is mindful of everyone’s health and safety.”

Williams said school leaders aim to hold small, in-person graduation receptions at a later time to more formally recognize graduates and their families.

For the May 17 event, graduates should enter the drive-through at Henry G. Bennett Boulevard. After traveling through the procession, they will exit campus along Jerry D. Carroll Drive.

School officials ask that graduates RSVP for the drive-through at apply.osuokc.edu/register/graduates2020 in order to receive their event pass.

Graduates are encouraged to bring along family members or pets in their vehicles, but in order to manage traffic and create an enjoyable experience for all attendees, the event is limited to one vehicle per attending graduate.

OSU-OKC will share photos and some live video on its social media channels for people who are not able to attend the event.

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For media inquiries:

Nick Trougakos, OSU-OKC – nick.trougakos@okstate.edu – (405) 945-9196

About Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City

Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) is part of the modern land-grant system of Oklahoma State University. OSU-OKC is a two-year public institution, offering more than 40 degrees and certificate options. Through quality education, a supportive environment, leadership training and service opportunities, OSU-OKC trains students to work and educates them to lead. OSU-OKC graduates are found throughout the community serving as police officers, firefighters, nurses, teachers, healthcare professionals and business owners. More information is available at www.osuokc.edu.