Commencement Update

To the Johnson College Graduating Class of 2020 (and their families),

Due to weather, the Johnson College Commencement Ceremony scheduled for August 4, 2020 is being postponed until Wednesday, August 5, 2020. The location of the ceremony will still be the Circle Drive-In, 1911 Scranton Carbondale Highway, Scranton and will still begin at dusk.

This has been a unique and trying semester for all of us, and this decision was made with the health and well-being of all members of our campus community and their loved ones in mind. We know this news leads to many associated questions, and we will share answers as they become available on the College’s website.

We also know this is unexpected news, especially for you, our 2020 graduates, and your loved ones. While the ceremony that culminates your hard work and dedication will be different this year, we want you to know that your accomplishments are absolutely impressive. It is important to note that even though we will not be having a formal commencement ceremony until August, you will be a graduate of Johnson College as of either May or August 2020, whichever date coincides with the completion of your degree requirements.

Our campus members are strong, adaptable, and dedicated to each other and to caring for their communities. We take comfort knowing that in these uncertain times, you, our graduates, are leading us into the future. We appreciate your understanding and commitment to join together as a Johnson College Community and as a nation to support our collective efforts to protect those most vulnerable to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Thank you,

Kellyn Williams, PhD
Chief Academic Officer

GRADUATION 2020

General Information

The College will be hosting its graduation ceremony on Wednesday, August 5 beginning at dusk at the Circle Drive-In Theater. Grad Finale will be held on July 27th and 28th on Johnson College’s campus.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Grad Finale?
A. This event is held in two sessions to allow for all graduates to attend. Students will fulfill all obligations regarding the senior exit survey, financial aid, student business services, and the registrar. This is when students will receive caps, gowns, and commencement tickets.

Q. Wait, so there is a new date for 2020 graduation?
A. Yes! Due to weather the graduation ceremony has been moved from Tuesday, August 4 to Wednesday, August 5 at the Circle Drive-In Theater [1911 Scranton Carbondale Highway, Scranton]. We will be sending details to graduating students by email.

Q. Wait, so there is a new date for Awards Night?
A. No, awards will be given to students at Grad Finale. We will recognize your accomplishments at commencement.

Q. I paid the graduation petition fee. Will I get a refund if I do not attend the new graduation date?
A. No, the fee is not used for the ceremony. The graduation fee is non-refundable.

Q. Will I still receive my cap and gown?
A. Yes! If you ordered a cap and gown during Grad Application, they are in and will be distributed to students at Grad Finale.

Q. Can I keep my cap and gown?
A. Yes, you sure can. Once you receive it, it is yours to keep.

Q. When will I receive my actual diploma?
A. Students graduating in May 2020 and August 2020 should make an appointment with the Registrar Office to pick it up on campus. In the meantime, transcripts are available through our Registrar Office and can be used as education verification. https://johnson.edu/registrar

Q. If I wasn’t planning to walk in the May graduation ceremony, but I’d like to walk in the August ceremony, what do I do?
A. Be on the lookout for an email from the Registrar Office in July asking you if you would like to walk in the August ceremony.

Q. Can my parents, friends, and relatives attend the August graduation ceremony?
A. Yes. Check the commencement webpage as we get closer for more detailed information.

Q. Where will I park for the August graduation?
A. There is parking at the Circle Drive-In. Parking areas will be assigned closer to the date. Check the commencement webpage as we get closer for more detailed information.