- FSU President Richard McCullough announced Thursday there will be increased security at all commencement events.
- This includes increased police and support personnel to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
- Watch now to hear from one graduating senior about the atmosphere he expects at the event.
BROADCAST TRANSCRIPT:
FSU says it will be awarding the most degrees in school history at graduation this semester — and after last week's deadly shooting, the ceremonies will look a little different, as well.
I'm Alberto Camargo, your College Town neighborhood reporter.
Breaking down the changes to commencement this semester.
In a prepared statement Thursday, FSU president Richard McCullough announced that the victims of last week's shooting will be honored at each ceremony, saying, "Each ceremony, including Panama City's, will begin with a moment of silence to honor Robert Morales and Tiru Chabba, whose lives were lost in the violence that shook the Tallahassee Campus just days ago. We will also reflect on those still recovering from their injuries and the strength they've demonstrated. And we'll acknowledge the courage and kindness we've witnessed since — a reflection of the best of Florida State."
McCullough also says that police and support personnel will be increased at all commencement events to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
FSU senior Danny Felton says he expects a massive turnout of people and positive energy to pick up the community.
"This is really a big relief for a lot of us that are graduating and moving on the next phase of our lives so, honestly, I see people coming together and the energy is going to be through the roof."
Commencement will take place on both Friday and Saturday, May 2-3 — with ceremonies scheduled for 9 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. each day.
In College Town, Alberto Camargo, ABC27.
ORIGINAL STORY:
Florida State University announced new safety measures ahead of its fall commencement.
In a post on the university's Instagram page, President Richard McCullough outlined that graduations will still happen but with a couple of changes.
According to the post, there will be increased security at all commencement events.
This includes increased police and support personnel to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
Each ceremony, including Panama City, will begin with a moment of silence to honor Robert Morales and Tiru Chabba, both of whom were killed after a school shooting last Thursday.
TPD answers questions regarding Florida State's suspected shooter, Phoenix Ikner
Spring commencements kick off Friday, May 2nd, starting at 9 am.
CLICK HERE to see the full schedule.
Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website.
Stay in touch with us anywhere, anytime.
