Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary cancels graduation amid coronavirus concerns
The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has canceled all on-campus events — including graduation ceremonies — this semester because of coronavirus concerns, officials announced Friday.
Spring graduates this year will receive their diplomas in the mail after May 8 and will be invited to participate in fall graduation ceremonies in December.
“It is painful to take the unprecedented, but necessary, step of canceling our Spring commencement since never before in our 112 year history has Southwestern Seminary not held a scheduled graduation ceremony,” President Adam W. Greenway said in a written statement.
“I deeply regret this dramatic action, and I know it will be incredibly disappointing to our seminary and Scarborough College graduates, but I am prayerful they, as faithful Southwesterners, will understand that such a step was appropriate as the institution seeks to do what is in the best interests of our students and their families, the seminary community, and the greater Fort Worth area.”
The seminary earlier this month switched studies to online classes and canceled chapel services and on-campus activities through April 4. Friday’s announcement cancels all activities through the end of the semester.
This comes as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to grow locally and across the country.
In Tarrant County, cases have been reported in Fort Worth, Arlington, Southlake, Colleyville, Mansfield, North Richland Hills, Watauga, Benbrook and White Settlement.
Greenway sent a video message to students.
“I want you to know that I believe very firmly that God is working already to make Southwestern Seminary a more caring place, to help provide comfort and options for students as they navigate a situation that is changing, literally, moment by moment,” he said.
