Commencement

You can download the below letter HERE.

Dear 2019-20 Columbia College Chicago graduate: 
 
I can’t believe it has been almost a year since you graduated.  I hope that you are staying healthy and safe. 

When I announced the cancellation of Columbia's in-person Commencement last May, I held out the possibility of adding one or two Commencement ceremonies in May 2021 for 2020 graduates and their guests.  With that time now approaching, it is clear at this point that state and local public health regulations and the national health situation will still not allow for large in-person events this spring.  Regrettably, therefore, the college will not hold in-person Commencement exercises in May. 
 
Instead, we are devoting our resources to the production of a more complete and elaborate virtual Commencement than we were able to offer last year, including a multi-ceremony format, a fuller array of musical performances, and recognition of the graduation of individual students.  A campus team is already at work on this project and we expect that the results will be spectacular.  One of the ceremonies will be dedicated to the class of 2020, and I am writing to invite you to take part in it and celebrate your accomplishments and those of your fellow graduates.  You will be able to access the ceremony on the Commencement website beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021.  To further personalize the event, you can create a Celebration Slide that will be screened as part of a virtual tribute to the graduates.  We ask that you submit it by April 1, 2021.
 
I look forward to honoring the achievements and shared experiences of the class of 2020.  My very best wishes to you. 
  
Sincerely, 


Kwang-Wu Kim 
President and CEO 

You can download the below letter HERE.

We are all so proud of your accomplishments! As we begin to plan this year’s virtual Commencement, know that we are planning an exciting event centered on you and your graduating class. Before your big day, please prioritize these important activities:

1) Prepare to Graduate:

Carefully review the Graduation Checklist and make sure you are completing all the necessary steps to graduate, especially:

• Apply for graduation in MyColumbia
• Review your advising guide in MyColumbia
• Columbia Central Exit Counseling (required for students with loans)
• Attend GradExpo in the Engage Portal on February 26^th
• Read through the FAQs about Commencement

2) Prepare for Your Career:
With graduation approaching, get the support you need to start your career after Columbia. Work with the team at the Career Center to help enhance your resume, cover letter, and portfolio in one-on-one appointments or at a workshop. Connect with professionals at industry-related events. Utilize Handshake to search for jobs, register for workshops/events, and request appointments with Career Center staff. Showcase your skills on Columbia’s free creative network, Portfolium. It’s your personal website that allows you to connect with peers, document your work and experience, and be found by employers. For updates, event announcements, career advice, student highlights, and more, follow the Career Center on Instagram @columcareer. 

3) Participate in Manifest:
Manifest 2021 is the 20^th anniversary of this iconic student event! Showcasing your body of work for your family and friends at Manifest is will be a highlight of your academic career. You will soon hear from your department on how to get started, as there are myriad ways to participate. We also encourage you to stay tuned to the manifest.colum.edu website for details! 

4) Watch Your Ceremony:
Your Commencement ceremony will be available for viewing on the College’s main website on May 15^th. Gather your family and friends, decorate, take pictures and celebrate your special day! Regularly check the Commencementwebsite and your Columbia email for important updates.

5) Plan to Stay Connected

You’re almost a Columbia alum! What’s next? In the weeks after graduation, you’ll receive an email to activate your alumni account. There are tens of thousands of successful #columalum waiting for you to join them. Here are some steps you can take today!

1. Visit www.colum.edu/alumni. Login and update your contact info
2. Link your social media accounts and find new ways to network
3. Access post-graduation career resources
4. Sign up for communications to receive the latest news and event invites
5. Use #columalum after graduation for all of your social media posts

And be sure to follow us!

Facebook: Columbia College Chicago Alumni 
Twitter: ColumAlum 
Instagram: Columalum
LinkedIn: Columbia College Chicago ALUMNI 

Again, I congratulate you on your accomplishments, now get ready to go out and “author the culture of your time.”

Sincerely,