BRISTOL, Tenn., March 24, 2020 — In light of heightened COVID-19 concerns, King University has announced that all remaining classes for the spring 2020 semester will be completed via distance learning.
As an added measure, King will delay its spring commencement ceremony, originally scheduled for May 2. The popular event typically draws thousands of guests to campus for a processional around the campus oval and the announcement of student honors and degrees.
“As we all work toward minimizing risk and maintaining a healthy community, we know it is in the best interest of everyone at King and in our region to keep our on-campus population as small as possible for now,” said Alexander Whitaker, president of the University. “Our hearts are certainly with our students and their families, especially our seniors, as we navigate these challenging days, and we will do everything we can to help ease this transition and celebrate our graduates’ well-earned degrees.”
Although the commencement ceremony will be delayed, the conferring of degrees will take place as scheduled on May 15, 2020, for those who have completed requirements.
King has been proactive in its efforts to preserve the health of students, faculty, and staff. Earlier this month, the University canceled study abroad trips, instituted enhanced cleaning protocols and meal preparation procedures, extended spring break by an additional week, and converted all courses to distance learning platforms. King also created a regularly updated COVID-19 resource page on its website, which can be reviewed here.
An announcement will be made at a future date regarding the rescheduling of commencement.
For more information on King University, visit https://www.king.edu.
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King University is a Presbyterian-affiliated, doctoral-level comprehensive university. Founded in 1867 as King College, the University offers more than 90 majors, minors, pre-professional degrees and concentrations in fields such as business, nursing, law, medical and health sciences, pharmacy, education, and humanities. Graduate programs are offered in business administration, education, and nursing. A number of research, off-campus learning opportunities, and travel destinations are also available. King University is a NCAA Division II and a Conference Carolinas member with 25 varsity sports. For more information about King University, visit www.king.edu. King University does not discriminate against academically qualified students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, or disability. King University is certified by SCHEV to operate in Virginia. King’s primary location in Virginia is Southwest Virginia Community College, 724 Community College Rd, Cedar Bluff, and VA 24609.