Governor and First Lady Northam to Host “Virginia Graduates Together” Honoring Class of 2020

Virginians across the Commonwealth are invited to join Governor Ralph Northam and First Lady Pamela Northam in honoring the remarkable achievements of the class of 2020 during a statewide virtual celebration at 5:00 p.m. this evening.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had major impacts on students across the country and prompted the cancellation of traditional graduation ceremonies. “Virginia Graduates Together” will salute 2020 graduates with a special address from the Governor and First Lady, musical performances, a keynote speech from United States Women’s National Soccer champion Angela Hucles Mangano, and well-wishes from notable Virginians including former Virginia Tech football coach Frank Beamer, University of Virginia’s men’s basketball coach Tony Bennett, musician Dave Matthews, comedian Jay Pharoah, actress Constance Wu, Washington Nationals first baseman Ryan Zimmerman and more!

Many of the nearly 600 videos and photos submitted by graduates will also be featured in the 30-minute program. Students, families and teachers can join the celebration on social media by sharing cap and gown photos, well-wishes, videos and more using the hashtag #GraduateTogetherVA. 

The broadcast and streaming event, “Virginia Graduates Together,” is produced by Virginia Public Media (VPM) in partnership with the Office of the Governor and the Virginia Department of Education. Watch the program on Blue Ridge PBS, VPM and WHRO, or stream on Facebook Live and YouTube through WETA and East Tennessee PBS. More information about the program can be found at VPM.org/grad.