Graduation Etiquette 2021

The pandemic has sharply influenced many important ceremonies such as weddings, holidays and special ceremonies such as graduation. Last year was met with hard cancellations and seniors were graduating virtually and commencements were often completely cancelled. According to a recent article in Best Colleges, this year is the year of hybridized commencements. Despite the vaccine and safety improvements, many schools will continue to celebrate virtually as opposed to in person. Here is a graduation etiquette 2021 breakdown:

Virtual Graduation Etiquette 2021

Many campuses will continue to social distance and hold their ceremonies through virtual platforms. In keeping with the theme, family and friends may want to create a celebratory background that everyone can share and celebrate from afar. Send each family member a box of goodies, from party hats to food items and enjoy some time together. The graduate can wear their cap and gown and guests should also dress appropriately for a graduation.

Smaller Event

Some high schools and universities are allowing a limited number of guests—and social distancing measures will be strictly enforced. For many people, some who have lost close friends and family to Covid, seeing a loved one cross the stage is an exciting and healing experience. The opportunity to share a milestone amid a year filled with much hardship and pain is something many people are anxiously looking forward to.

Drive-Thru Services

Sacramento State is one of the universities that is going to be participating in a CARmencement 2021 ceremony. First, they will drive through campus with their “CARmencement bubble buddies”, watch the speeches and wave to their friends and faculty. Then, they will be given a designated route and receive their diploma from the comfort of their own car.  

Graduation Protocol

Whether you are celebrating personally or receive an invitation, some common courtesies still apply:

• Send out invitations early.
• Invite close friends and family to your virtual event.
• Keep the guest list manageable.
• Don’t expect everyone you invite to attend – either in person on virtually.
• RSVP in a timely manner.
• Don’t bring an uninvited guest.
• Make arrangements or offer suggestions for out-of-town guests.
• Create a gift bag for your houseguests.
• Deliver a goodie bag to out-of-town guests.
• Send a graduation gift ahead of time.
• Feel free to ask the graduate or a family member what they are hoping to receive.
• Checks and cash are always welcome.
• Always include a gift receipt in the graduation card.
• Write a thank you note within 48 hours of receiving the gift.

Graduation Gift Ideas for the High School Graduate

College dorm essentials: Laundry bag, a set of bamboo sheets, bath towels, shower caddy, storage bin, bulletin board, a gift card to an office supply store, Target, Walmart or a grocery store or coffee shop or deli in the local area of the university they plan to attend.

Graduation Gift Ideas for the College Graduate

By this time, the college graduate has collected a lot of “stuff” and adding more to their collection is almost counterproductive. The standards are always appreciated, such as Yeti cups, tech gifts and one more blanket, but a check of any denomination will be greatly appreciated. Unless you are a close family member who wants to give the grad something personal, cash is always king.

For more information check out Hosting a Family Reunion Southern Style. You may also like Outdoor Entertaining Etiquette Tips. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.