A plan announced by Chancellor Kim A. Wilcox on Wednesday aims to address graduates' urge to walk at commencement, while respecting the caution still required by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. 

Under the plan, graduates can have their photos taken on stage, but no guests will be permitted. A prerecorded 30-minute program will be made available for students and their families to watch from home. 

"I'm pleased UCR can provide this celebratory opportunity for our graduating students who have worked so hard to earn their degrees and am grateful to the Commencement Task Force for its thoughtful deliberations and recommendations supported by science," Wilcox wrote in the April 7 announcement.

The UCR plan is consistent with announcements made by many public and private universities across the U.S. Sister UC campuses in Berkeley and Irvine will also have virtual ceremonies and will facilitate in-person photo opportunities. Many universities hosting in-person graduations, such as the University of Southern California and San Diego State University, have access to large outdoor stadiums. Most in-person commencements either won't allow guests or will limit attendance to two guests.

UCR will require students to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to take part in the in-person photo opportunities. To read the chancellor's full message, follow this link.