Slippery Rock University announced its winter commencement ceremony will be hosted virtually at 10 a.m., Dec. 12, for all spring, summer and fall 2020 graduates.

The move to a virtual ceremony was necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic and Pennsylvania's limitations on large public gatherings in the ongoing effort to stem the spread of the virus.

Currently, the state prohibits indoor events and gatherings of more than 25 people. Students who plan on graduating in December 2020 and January 2021 must apply to graduate by Oct. 1 as graduating is not automatic.

Students can apply online by accessing their MySRU portal.