A collage of the 111 Eastern Mennonite University graduates who submitted photos for the virtual Commencement ceremony. EMU also hosted three separate in-person Commencement Walks for grads of the university's three schools on May 1. (Photo collage by Jon Styer)

Highlights of EMU’s 2021 Commencement

EMU’s Commencement ceremonies spanned nearly two weeks, beginning April 24 with the Donning of the Kente ceremony and concluding yesterday with virtual Commencements. And there still one to go: EMU’s site in Lancaster, Pa., will host a graduation ceremony Friday, May 14.

Catch everything you missed here with news coverage and links to EMU’s Facebook Live page when recordings are available.

All 351 graduates were honored in a virtual ceremony Sunday at 1 p.m. with a Commencement addressed offered by The Hon. Deanna Reed, mayor of Harrisonburg and a member of EMU’s Board of Trustees. Watch this.

To the Class of 2021, EMU awarded 351 total degrees, including 209 undergraduate degrees, 104 master’s degrees, 37 graduate certificates, and one doctorate.

All 2020 graduates were honored in a virtual ceremony Saturday at 1 p.m., with a Commencement address from Professor Carolyn Stauffer. Watch this.

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Videos of the May 1 “walking ceremonies” are available here:


More graduation coverage

Center for Justice and Peacebuilding Celebration of Blessings: This virtual private event on Saturday, May 1, celebrated the 25 graduates from CJP. Read news coverage and a list of the grads.


Eastern Mennonite Seminary Baccalaureate: Sixteen students were honored with a service including a scripture reading, musical selections, an address by Professor Nancy Heisey, seminary associate dean, benediction and a commissioning. Watch at EMU’s Facebook Live page. View the ceremony at EMU’s Facebook Live page [you do not need an account to view.]


Cords of Distinction: Each year, EMU honors 10 students with its highest award. Read more about this special group. View the ceremony at EMU’s Facebook Live page [you do not need an account to view.]

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The Donning of the Kente ceremony celebrates the achievements of graduating seniors who recognize their international roots. Each graduate receives a stole of kente cloth, a symbol of prestige in many African societies, handwoven for each graduate, or a satin sash with flags from the countries they feel a connection with. View the ceremony at EMU’s Facebook Live page [you do not need an account to view.]

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Athletic Honors and President’s Awards: Jaylon Lee and Megan Breidigan were awarded EMU’s highest student-athlete honors. Athlete of the Year, Freshman of the Year, senior recognitions and Academic Achievement Awards were also on the program.

Student Recognitions Celebration: Ninety students were recognized for accomplishments and achievements during the 2020-21 academic year.