PRESS RELEASE
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — May 18, 2020 – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the expected continuation of restrictions on large gatherings, Johnson & Wales University (JWU) will not hold the Providence Campus Commencement ceremonies that had been rescheduled for Saturday, August 22.
“To all of the students who are completing their studies this year at JWU, we share in this disappointing and unfortunate turn of events,” said Providence Campus President Marie Bernardo-Sousa, LP.D. “Regretfully, 2020 has become a year when many of the traditional face-to-face events that we enjoy annually have been cancelled or rescheduled due to public health restrictions. We are exploring how we will come together in 2021 to recognize and honor our 2020 graduates and will share our plan in the coming months.”
While an in-person ceremony celebrating the accomplishments of the JWU Class of 2020 may not be possible at this time, the university has a virtual salute planned for Saturday, May 23, to recognize this year’s graduates.
About JWU
Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 12,000 graduate, undergraduate and online students at its four campuses in Providence, Rhode Island; North Miami, Florida; Denver, Colorado; and Charlotte, North Carolina. An innovative educational leader, the university offers degree programs in arts and sciences, business, culinary arts, design and engineering, education, health and wellness, hospitality, nutrition and physician assistant studies. Its unique model integrates arts and sciences and industry-focused education with work experience and leadership opportunities, inspiring students to achieve professional success and lifelong personal and intellectual growth. The university’s impact is global, with alumni from 125 countries pursuing careers worldwide. For more information, visit jwu.edu.
MEDIA CONTACT Ryan Crowley, communication & media relations specialist, 401-598-2752. Follow @JWUnews