As hard as it may be to believe, the Class of 2021 has just 12 days until its status changes from seniors to alumni.

A 2020-21 academic year that began as an enigma promises to close with a clarity not felt since 2019. Marquette's impending graduates will indeed walk across the stage and feel a diploma case in their hands before moving tassels from the right side to the left. A slew of events remain, however, until Pomp & Circumstance summons the Class of 2021 out the Scholl Center doors.

Marquette will hold its annual Honors Day ceremony on Friday, May 28th inside the Scholl Center beginning at 1 pm. At this time, students will receive recognition for any academic award, scholarship, or grant. Seniors are expected to be dressed in their caps and gowns for this event. Parents are invited to attend.

The Class of 2021 will return to campus Tuesday, June 1st at 9 am for a mandatory Baccalaureate Mass/Graduation practice.

The practices, rehearsals, and exhibitions all lead into the big day - Wednesday, June 2nd.

Marquette is proud to announce Michigan City Police Chief Dion Campbell ('83) will serve as keynote speaker at the Graduation Breakfast held inside the Orleans Room of Blue Chip Casino beginning at 9 am. Guests for this event will include seniors and parents only.

Graduation evening kicks off with Baccalaureate Mass at 5 pm with Most Reverend Robert J. McClory presiding alongside several parish priests. The Scholl Center Gymnasium doors will open at 4 pm and family seating will be on a first-come, first-served basis. No advanced or saving seats will take place. Parties will be seated once all members have arrived. Students should arrive at the Scholl Center Commons no later than 4:30 pm. Formal graduation attire (shirts with ties, dress shoes) is expected for all Mass participants.

Following Mass, the Class of 2021 will have a few minutes before the formal Graduation Ceremony slated for 6:30 pm. Seniors will line up by 6:15 pm to re-enter the Scholl Center Gymnasium for the grand procession.

Marquette will continue to promote mask-wearing and social distancing throughout all of its year-end events. For those wishing to witness from afar, Marquette plans to live-stream both Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation on the school's Facebook page.

We look forward to celebrating the scholarship, service, and talents of a most resilient Class of 2021.