PHOENIX (May 11, 2020) -- The current Covid-19 pandemic and need for social distancing have thrown a monkey-wrench in traditional commencement celebrations this month. However, keeping safety top of mind, Phoenix College is planning a creative method of honoring the Class of 2020. On Friday, May 29, the 100-year old College will celebrate this year's graduates with a novel “Caravan Cap and Gown Pickup Celebration" – a celebratory “carmencement, of sorts.”
Beginning at 8 a.m. in the North parking lot, graduates whose last names begin with the letter A are invited to decorate their cars and load up their loved ones to pick up their cap and gown, diploma cover and swag bag from PC alumni. They'll also receive a Proud Phoenix College Bear commemorative yard sign to share their recent accomplishments with their neighbors.
Upon arrival, students will be greeted with a giant archway made from colorful balloons. Faculty and staff will line the road to welcome and cheer on the students as they drive by. Photographs may be taken as long as everyone remains safely inside of their vehicles. The school is asking for the festivities to be limited to one car per graduating student.
Phoenix College President, Dr. Larry Johnson says, "We understand that this is a bittersweet moment for the Class of 2020. That's why we are doing everything in our power to give our students the accolades they deserve, while adhering to the health and safety guidelines implemented by the Governor to keep our community safe."
There will be both a morning and an evening “Caravan Cap and Gown” pickup celebrations on May 29. The details are below and interviews with faculty, staff and students may be obtained on-site.
Morning pick up:
Last names A-I, 8 - 9 a.m.
Last names J-R, 9 - 10 a.m.
Last names S-Z, 10 - 11 a.m.
Evening pick up:
Last names A-I, 5 – 6 p.m.
Last names J-R, 6 – 7 p.m.
Last names S-Z, 7 – 8 p.m.
Phoenix College is located at 1202 W Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85013. However, the entrance to the North Parking Lot is off of Flower Street. A map is included below for your convenience. Please notify Erika Keenan, Phoenix College Marketing Director, in advance to coordinate interviews and the best live shots. She can be reached at erika.keenan@phoenixcollege.edu.
For media inquiries please contact Erika Keenan at erika.keenan@phoenixcollege.edu or at 602.285.7842.
About Phoenix College:
Phoenix College is the flagship of the 10 colleges in the Maricopa County Community College District, one of the largest community college districts in the nation. The College will be celebrating its 100-year anniversary in 2020. Phoenix College offers academic courses leading to associate degrees, university transfer, certificates and short-term job training to more than 17,000 students annually.