• More than 770 graduates from 2020 and 2021 will celebrate with approximately 2,000 guests at seven rescheduled graduation ceremonies in Wagga Wagga in the coming days

Charles Sturt University will be awash with caps and gowns in the coming days as the University welcomes students from 2020 and 2021 to celebrate at their rescheduled graduation ceremonies.

More than 770 graduates and approximately 2,044 guests will attend seven ceremonies at Joyes Hall at Charles Sturt in Wagga Wagga on Friday 20, Monday 23, Tuesday 24, Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 May.

The Wagga Wagga events will host graduates from all faculties and from courses such as education, psychology, computing and mathematics, and nursing.

Charles Sturt Vice-Chancellor Professor Renée Leon said the University has not forgotten the graduates who were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s exciting to host graduations again as they are the culmination of years of academic focus, hard work and sacrifice for our students,” Professor Leon said.

“Our 2020 and 2021 graduates have shown so much resilience during the pandemic, it’s now time to celebrate with family and friends who have supported them.

“I am excited for all students attending ceremonies in Wagga Wagga and look forward to hearing about the impact they are making in their communities.”

Charles Sturt Deputy Chancellor Dr Saranne Cooke presided over today’s ceremony and was joined by guest speaker Member for Riverina the Hon. Michael McCormack, MP.

Professor Leon said all 2020 and 2021 graduates who did not attend a graduation ceremony in June 2021 have been invited to attend a ceremony this year.

Ceremonies will be held on Friday 20 May from the Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 May from the Faculty of Arts and Education and Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 May from the Faculty of Science and Health.

Charles Sturt University will hold 27 graduation ceremonies at campuses in Port Macquarie, Bathurst, and Wagga Wagga, as well as ceremonies in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.

Professor Leon said the University continues to take all necessary steps regarding COVID-19.

All graduates, guests and staff are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have proof of a medical exemption to attend a graduation ceremony.

Staff will wear masks, and graduates and their guests will also be encouraged to do so. Masks can be removed for photos, and as graduates cross the stage to receive their testamurs.