#Graduation2020: Even celebrities are attending this virtual graduation for US-based students

01 May 2020

Social media giant Facebook is famous for hosting many things, like your friendships, photos and messages, but did you ever think it would be hosting your graduation ceremony?

The answer to that is probably not.

But because of COVID-19 campus lockdowns, it’s easy to believe that a virtual graduation ceremony is now the new norm.

Your graduation may not go as planned this year, but there’s a virtual alternative. Source: Ed Jones/AFP

What to expect from the virtual graduation

So to raise everyone’s graduation spirit, Facebook announced in a recent press release that it would be broadcasting its own graduation ceremony for US high schools and universities.

The VP of Facebook’s Global Partnerships, Business and Corporate Development Marne Levine said: “The ceremony will acknowledge high schools and colleges in the US by name, state by state, including photos and videos of the class of 2020 and messages from deans and principals across the country.”

Not one to disappoint, Facebook’s #Graduation2020 is moving up a gear by inviting a list of celebrities to cheer you on.

This includes talk show host Oprah Winfrey, who will be the commencement speaker, and rapper Lil Nas X, actress Awkwafina and gymnast Simone Biles who plan to share words of wisdom to their virtual crowd.

Music mogul Miley Cyrus will also perform a moving rendition of her hit song “The Climb”.

Levine also reveals that Facebook will also merge its graduation celebrations with its sister company, Instagram: “On Monday, May 11, @instagram will kick off daily programming that spotlights iconic senior experiences — from ‘most likely’ votes to portrait showcases to senior skip day.”

“Instagram will also roll out new creative tools and features including a graduation countdown sticker, celebratory sticker pack, new AR effects, and a custom hashtag page for #Graduation2020.”

Oprah is one of many celebrities who plan to attend your virtual graduation. Source: Tom Cooper via Getty Images North America/AFP

Where and when to watch this virtual graduation

On May 15 at 11AM PT/2PM ET, Facebook will broadcast #Graduation2020: Facebook and Instagram Celebrate the Class of 2020.

“Graduates can also host their own virtual graduation ceremony and party via Facebook, with special features including a virtual graduation hub, custom filters, family and friends celebrations enabled by Messenger Rooms, and more,” says Levine.

The video will also be shared on Facebook Watch and available at facebook.com/facebookapp.

So if you’re feeling uncertain about your graduation plans, why not join thousands of other students in the US and celebrate your graduation together?

It will certainly be one to remember.