UH Mānoa to require masks at commencement ceremonies

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Contact:
Brent T Suyama, (808) 492-0597
Assoc Dir, UH Communications
Posted: May 12, 2022

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa announced it will require attendees of the three commencement ceremonies this weekend to wear masks for the indoor graduation. UH Mānoa will host three ceremonies at the Stan Sheriff Center; one on Friday, May 13, and two on Saturday, May 14.

The only time masks will be allowed to be removed is when the graduating student poses for the on-stage photo when receiving their diploma. This decision was made in hopes of keeping everyone at the ceremonies safe. 

The recent increase in COVID-19 cases has prompted the change from encouraging masks ro requiring them. State health officials and experts from the UH medical community have warned that preventive measures should be followed to limit the current rise in cases.

Mask wearing is encouraged during lei giving outdoors.