UM cancels second straight graduation ceremony, this time for fall

(KPAX) The University of Montana has decided to cancel its fall commencement ceremony.

It's the second straight commencement Montana has had to cancel after the spring 2019 ceremony was canceled due to COVID-19 concerns as well.

On Wednesday afternoon, the university sent an email to students alerting them of the decision.

"Given the level of COVID-19 infection and spread both nationally and in Montana, and the uncertainty of whether this will subside or increase in the coming weeks, we believe a large gathering of the UM family for a Commencement ceremony this fall is not in the best interest of our recent graduates, their families or our community."

The university has already set a date for a spring commencement on May 8, 2021. UM is inviting all class of 2020 graduates from spring, summer and fall to return to campus for commencement alongside the class of 2021.