VCU cancels university-wide spring commencement ceremony
RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) - Virginia Commonwealth University announced Tuesday it will not hold a university-wide commencement ceremony at the end of this school year.
The reason is because Richmond Coliseum, the usual site for commencement, will not be available.
A spokesperson for the Richmond Coliseum said they are not able to book events through 2019 and to contact the mayor’s office, who owns the building.
The city said they could not confirm bookings of the Richmond Coliseum beyond December 31, as the administration evaluated the future of the existing facility, one they say is decaying and a liability. The city says people who want to hold dates for 2019 at the coliseum can. but the city cannot confirm them. The city says VCU made the decision to cancel because of that.
The city announced a redevelopment plan earlier this year involving the Richmond Coliseum and surrounding area.
The proposal was halted in August due to a conflict between the city and developer.
VCU said it tried to find an alternative site, but could not find one that met its requirements.
Graduation in the spring of 2019 will be honored in separate ceremonies held by each college, school or department between May 8 to 12.
VCU’s Dec. 8 fall commencement at Siegel Center is unaffected.
An FAQ page is available on VCU’s website.
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