As the 2019-2020 academic year draws to a close, Candler School of Theology and Emory University will celebrate with a series of online experiences designed to unite the community in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since we are not able to meet in person, tune in to the virtual versions of these favorite year-end traditions to honor the outstanding achievements of Candler students, retiring faculty, and the Class of 2020.
Honors Day: May 7, 11:00 a.m.
Candler’s annual Honors Day Convocation will announce awards for students in vocational and academic excellence, as well as faculty and staff honors. Join the Watch Party on Candler’s Facebook page and cheer each other on.
Tribute to Retiring Faculty: May 8, 6:00 p.m.
A webpage launch at 6:00 p.m. will feature video tributes to retiring faculty members Steven J. Kraftchick, professor in the practice of New Testament interpretation, and Karen D. Scheib, professor of pastoral care and pastoral theology.
Celebrating the Candler Class of 2020: May 9, 9:00 a.m.
“Celebrating the Class of 2020” will launch Saturday, May 9 at 9:00 a.m. Based on Candler’s Diploma Ceremony traditionally held in Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church, the online version will feature videos based on elements of that program, including the announcement of the names of students in the Class of 2020, a keynote address written with contributions from students, and the premiere of a new Candler hymn with lyrics by Candler alums Gennie Bowles 17T and Byron Wratee 18T. https://emory2020.com/candler
Emory’s 175th Commencement Ceremonies: May 11
Emory’s 175th Commencement ceremonies will take place in an online format that blends some of the university’s most cherished traditions with digital experiences designed to celebrate graduates in new ways. https://emory2020.com/
Central to this year’s Commencement experience is the launch of the “Y/our Moment” website, which will feature online event coverage, including opening remarks and the official conferral of degrees by President Claire E. Sterk, presentation of select university honors and awards, and a special interactive keynote address by acclaimed social justice advocate and honorary degree recipient Bryan Stevenson, who — in a Commencement first — will also use his time to personally respond to student questions.
Launching on Monday, May 4, this new digital hub will also provide special Class of 2020 video content, messages and interactive activities designed to allow students, family, faculty and alumni to share congratulatory notes, memories, photos and video clips. Each school of the University will have its own page on the website.