Stephen F. Austin State University

Dear Colleagues,

In light of continuing concerns regarding COVID-19 and large gatherings, we have made the very difficult but necessary decision to postpone August commencement for the Class of 2020, including departmental ceremonies and other associated events. We will again provide a virtual commencement ceremony that will be enjoyable and provide alternative opportunities for our graduates. In accordance with our standard procedures, degrees will be conferred as scheduled and diplomas will be mailed.

Fred Poston, a 1992 graduate of SFA with a Bachelor of Business Administration, will be the commencement speaker. Mr. Poston was named vice president for operations services by the CBS division of the ViacomCBS Corporation in January 2019 and previously served as vice president for media operations for Discovery Communications, as well as an operations executive at ABC/Disney, Warner Bros., ReelzChannel and TV Guide.

I know that for many students, commencement is one of the highlights of the university experience—an exciting and uplifting celebration of goals attained. For this reason, we will provide our new alumni with the opportunity to participate in an in-person traditional ceremony and will provide details regarding that option as soon as possible.

I am sure this news will be disappointing for our graduates and their families, and it is unfortunate that our campus will not enjoy the jubilant celebration that marks the passage of another year. I am proud to be a member of the extraordinary SFA community, and I appreciate your support and dedication as we continue to navigate our response to the pandemic.

Axe ’em,

Scott A. Gordon
President