Converse Announces Changes to Upcoming Spring 2020 Social Events

Dear Converse Community,

It has been clear that we are in uncertain times as the past few weeks have unfolded in a way that none of us could have imagined. Yet, at a period of time when so much has changed, we continue to be steadfast in our mission to “see clearly, decide wisely, and act justly.” With those guiding principles at the forefront of all that we do, Converse is taking the necessary steps required in response to the COVID-19 novel coronavirus.

With recent concerns surrounding the community spread of COVID-19, the emphasis on social distancing, and the tightening of restrictions for social gatherings, Converse has made the difficult decision to cancel or postpone a number of our upcoming Spring 2020 social events held on campus:

• Founder’s Day activities originally scheduled for April 24, will be canceled. On that day, the Founder’s Day awards (Dexter Edgar Converse, Weisiger Outstanding Athletes, and Spirit of Converse) will still be announced. We will celebrate and honor the recipients during our fall events. Please stay tuned for more information.
• Silver Soirée, to celebrate Lifetime Society members, honor the 2020 Dexter Edgar Converse award recipient Carolyn Duer Pennell ’50 (1928-2018), and recognize Converse Life Trustee, Walter S. Montgomery, Jr., will be postponed until September 17.
• Reunion Weekend, originally scheduled for May 30-31, will be canceled. The 50th Reunion Class Dinner will be moved to September with additional details to be provided to those attendees. For any Reunion Weekend registrants, a credit will be automatically applied to your method of payment within one month.

Commencement is an important day for each of our graduates, their family members and friends, and for the Converse community as we recognize and celebrate all of the hard work it took for our graduates to reach that accomplishment.  At this point, we intend to continue with the Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies set for May 15-16*. If further guidance regarding the community spread of COVID-19 and/or restrictions on large gatherings is provided that changes this, we will update you as soon as the information is available. If we have to cancel or postpone Commencement, we will make and communicate that decision by April 1.* Please see our March 30, 2020 update regarding Baccalaureate and Commencement ceremonies.

These events at Converse are personal, important, and meaningful to each of you. Know that these decisions were made with the best intentions to protect the health and safety of our Converse community.

Although we are facing a challenge that none of us have seen in our lifetimes, Converse is strong and the Converse community is resilient. We will make the necessary changes when needed, we will adapt, and once we emerge, we will be ready to resume our mission with bold plans and a vibrant future.

Sincerely,

Krista

Krista L. Newkirk

President, Converse