In-person events on campus and sponsored by the university will comply with current executive and local orders and guidelines (Safe Return order of Gov. Tate Reeves’s reopening plan and the City of Oxford’s Serving Oxford Safely), as well as public health recommendations.
On May 28, 2020, Gov. Tate Reeves issued Executive Order 1492 outlining the “Safe Return” order, providing guidelines for group gatherings, travel, business operations, healthcare activities, recreation and amusement activities, reception halls/conference centers, schools and courts of law, in effect until June 15.
On July 24, 2020, Gov. Tate Reeves issued Executive Order No. 1511 establishing tighter restrictions on social gatherings statewide until 8:00 a.m. on Monday, August 3, 2020.This was further extended until 8:00 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2020 by Executive Order No. 1514.
Group gatherings (Indoor):
Social gatherings/activities shall be limited to a maximum of 10 participants indoor. All individuals shall maintain social distancing of a minimum of 6 feet distance between individuals not in the same household. This limitation shall not apply to religious entities, students in classrooms or gatherings in facilities governed by other capacity limitations.
Group gatherings (Outdoor):
Social gathering/activities shall be limited to a maximum of 20 participants outdoor. All individuals shall be limited to a maximum of 20 participants outdoor. All individuals shall maintain social distancing of a minimum of 6 feet distance between individuals not in the same household. This limitation shall not apply to religious entities or gatherings governed by other capacity limitations.
These parameters apply to all university events, including Commencement. We remain committed to holding an in-person ceremony for the Class of 2020. Currently, these restrictions prevent us from celebrating the number of people who graduated this year. Once we know when it will be safe to host large events in compliance with executive and local orders, we will announce the new date for an in-person Commencement.