Graduation is an important time of year, and we are always very excited to celebrate your academic success.

As you know, GHC will be postponing the graduation ceremony set for May 16 and nursing pinning set for May 15, but that doesn’t mean we are not going to commemorate your special moment.

At this time, we are working to have a commencement ceremony and nursing pinning ceremony later this summer. We will be rescheduling these events for a later date when we are confident of the safety and well-being for our graduates and their guests. We will begin posting additional details as they become available.

The decision to postpone commencement ceremonies is due to the Centers for Disease Control’s guidance to avoid gatherings as well as for the need for increased social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 at this time. You may read more about this decision on the University System of Georgia website.

For now, here are a few answers to some of your immediate questions:

• Does this mean I can’t graduate?

Students will still graduate consistent with academic standards, but the actual ceremonies will not be held as originally scheduled. New ceremony dates will be announced as soon as possible.

• What if I already ordered regalia for graduation?

Great news! Graduation is still going to happen! If you have already ordered your regalia, that order will be held for you. We will open registration for additional orders at a later date.

• How do I get my diploma?

Diplomas will be mailed directly to you. Please make sure your current address is consistent with our records by reviewing your information. Students can update their contact information on Banner through SCORE, if needed.

• How do I get a diploma cover?

As usual, diploma covers are provided to students who attend graduation. You will receive our special 50th anniversary commemorative diploma cover at your commencement.

Please also visit GHC’s dedicated page for Frequently Asked Questions here for information as it relates specifically to GHC or you may also find resources for GHC students and employees by visiting this Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information and Resources site. These pages will be reviewed and updated frequently.

Again, I want to thank you for your continued support and patience. We will continue to keep you informed as we address these challenging times together.