The university made this decision on Tuesday amid the coronavirus pandemic affecting the world.
In a statement posted to their website, the school says they are doing this in compliance with the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning regarding the pandemic.
They had already moved to all online classes and extended this until the end of the spring 2020 semester. This decision was based on the state and national public health protocols put in place by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Mississippi State Department of Health.
These guidelines encourage everyone to stay out of crowds of 10 or more people and limit yourself being in public and as always, to keep up proper hygiene and use hand sanitizer and disinfectant often.
“Commencement is one of MSU’s most meaningful and cherished traditions, one that our students and their families have earned…,” the University said on their website, “MSU remains committed to celebrating our graduates at a safe and appropriate time.”
UPDATE: The University of Southern Mississippi has also announced their commencement ceremonies will not be held in May.
They published on their website that the University remains open for limited business and essential functions for students like housing and dining services.
The school has also moved to all online classes as well.
