Texas A&M-Galveston To Host Virtual Commissioning & Online Graduation Celebration Ceremonies    

Though the COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted certain college and Aggie traditions, Texas A&M University at Galveston is still proud to host a commissioning ceremony for our Texas A&M Maritime Academy cadets enlisting to serve our country in the armed forces and an online Graduation Celebration & Conferring of Degrees. Both will be livestreamed on Facebook.

What: Commissioning Ceremony
When: Friday, May 8 at 11 a.m. CT
Where: Texas A&M Maritime Academy Facebook (@texasmaritime) 

The virtual commissioning ceremony will honor 13 cadet ensigns enlisting in the United States Navy and Navy Reserve. Texas A&M-Galveston’s Chief Operating Officer, Texas A&M University Vice President and Texas A&M Maritime Academy Superintendent Col. Michael E. Fossum ‘80 USAFR (Ret.) and United States Maritime Service Assistant Professor of the Practice in the Department of Maritime Transportation Capt. Timothy Nelick will preside.

What: Online Graduation Celebration & Conferring of Degrees
When: Saturday, May 9 at 9 a.m. CT
Where: Texas A&M-Galveston Facebook (@aggiesbythesea)

The pre-recorded celebration will be livestreamed on the Texas A&M-Galveston Facebook page, and will include a welcome from Col. Fossum, a message from RADM Mark H. Buzby, administrator of United States Maritime Administration, a presentation from Student Body President and graduating senior Robyn Battles ‘20 and traditional ringing of the bell to signal change in command. Degrees will be conferred by Executive Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer Dr. Patrick Louchouarn as student’s photos, comments and quotes are displayed. Of the 259 students receiving their degree this term, over 140 have opted to participate in the online celebration on Saturday.

“We realize we cannot replicate the feeling of physically walking across the stage amid cheers from friends and family, but we can come together virtually as Aggies by the Sea to celebrate this momentous occasion for our students who wish to participate or may not be able to participate in a forthcoming in-person commencement ceremony,” said Col. Michael E. Fossum. 

Participation in the virtual graduation celebration is voluntary and does not replace the option students have to participate in a future commencement ceremony that will be announced as public health guidance allows.