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New York Will Allow In-Person Graduation Ceremonies, With Limits

A graduation ceremony at SUNY New Paltz
WAMC/Ian Pickus
A graduation ceremony at SUNY New Paltz

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says graduation ceremonies will be allowed this spring, under strict gathering limits.

Cuomo says effective May 1, attendance at outdoor graduations with 500 or more people is limited to 20 percent of a venue’s capacity, with proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test required. For events with 200 to 500 attendees, attendance is limited to 33 percent of capacity. For smaller events, attendance is capped at 50 percent of capacity. Indoor ceremonies have stricter gathering limits.

Cuomo outlined the restrictions on a press call Monday.

"We continue to encourage virtual, drive-in or individual ceremonies," Cuomo said. "They are still the safest options for students and families. But we deserve a break and students deserve their day for graduation. And families deserve a little good news. It's been a long, long year."

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