The University of Maryland rescheduled its main commencement ceremony to Thursday at 6 p.m. due to severe weather forecast on Wednesday, according to a university email sent to 2025 graduates and their guests.
University leadership and public safety officials have consulted with weather services and meteorologists and discussed contingency plans to ensure safety at the main commencement ceremony, which is held outdoors at SECU Stadium.
Thursday was the scheduled rain date of the main commencement ceremony, which was originally scheduled for Wednesday. The student processional will start at 6 p.m. and last about one hour. It will be followed by the speaking program.
[Kermit the Frog announced as UMD’s 2025 commencement speaker]
This change does not impact the school or college ceremonies scheduled for Wednesday or Thursday, according to this university’s commencement website.
People planning to attend commencement should be prepared for rain that is still in the forecast for Thursday, the email advised.
“We understand that this change may be disruptive for some, but please know that we have made this decision to prioritize safety and to provide the best possible experience for graduates and guests,” the email announcing the change read.
The full commencement ceremony will be live streamed at commencement.umd.edu for students and their guests who are unable to attend on Thursday.
