From the Nominator

When it became apparent that Florida International University’s in-person commencement experience needed to transition to a virtual experience due to the pandemic, the commencement team created a new event that allowed call 2020 graduates to celebrate their accomplishments with family in a joyous way.

The Commencement Caravan was held on the grounds of FIU’s main campus in conjunction with our Commencement Fair. The event invited graduates to dress in their graduation regalia, deck out their cars in blue and gold, fill them with family members, and become part of a car conga line, of sorts. Graduating students got out of their vehicle (one grad at a time) once they reached a commencement stage we had set up outside, walked across the stage and received a congratulatory diploma and gift bag from Roary, FIU’s mascot. FIU cheerleaders cheered on the graduates. Before getting back in their cars, each graduate took a socially distant photo (with mask on) with FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg and Roary. A DJ played music the entire time, pumping up the cars’ occupants.

The event was a huge success. Cars began lining up more than 45 minutes before the start. More than 600 fall graduates participated, and approximately 2,000 family members. The noise level was off the charts. 

An online contest was held for the most spirited car, with prizes including a Herff Jones class ring, a diploma frame donated by our on-campus bookstore, and five general admission tickets to a future traditional ceremony.

From the Judges

A rock and roll graduation indeed! And a creative and fun way to respond to the restrictions, while still allowing students to come together to celebrate. We loved the car decoration competition and photo opportunities presented. Overall, an excellent example of how to do a commencement ceremony safely during COVID.