Dear Salem College Graduating Class of 2021:

I am delighted to share Salem College’s plans to honor you, our 2021 graduates. Your Commencement will be held in-person at Truist Stadium in Winston-Salem (formerly known as BB&T Ballpark—home of the Winston-Salem Dash) on Saturday, May 8 at 10 a.m. Salem College is particularly pleased to partner with Truist Stadium because of its close proximity to our campus.

As we celebrate together, we will remain cautious. Given the continuing concerns regarding the pandemic and the restrictions that remain in place, we will be limiting the number of guests to eight per graduating senior. For those of you who are not able to join us in person, we will greatly miss you. Please know we will broadcast the Commencement ceremony live via salem.edu.

The health and safety of Salem College students and their families as well as our faculty and staff remain our top priority, and there will be appropriate protocols in place on May 8. Much more information about commencement will be provided in coming weeks—how to register your attendance and RSVP for guests, Commencement speakers, and information regarding regalia. We are also exploring an opportunity during Commencement weekend for you to walk through our campus in accordance with proper COVID-19 protocols.

Many other traditional year-end events will be virtual this spring, but I am happy to be able to announce that the Senior Walk on Saturday, April 24, also will be in-person and shared virtually. More information will be available soon about both our Senior Walk and other virtual events. We are also working on the possibility of opening campus for photography in April for graduating seniors.

Please be on the lookout for an email from Shari Dallas about ordering caps and gowns. Given the unique circumstances of this past year, Salem College will provide caps, gowns, and hoods at no cost to Class of 2021 graduates. However, you will need to place your order online to have your cap, gown, and hood shipped to your home.

We know how difficult the past year has been for you and your families. I am proud of how you have adapted, persevered, and succeeded. I look forward to seeing you in person on May 8 when you receive your degree, as I, along with other members of the faculty and staff, celebrate your many accomplishments at Salem College!

Cordially,