SOUTH BEND, Ind.— Indiana University on Friday announced that it is postponing its commencement ceremonies that were originally scheduled for May.

The change is being made to practice the CDC’s recommended social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Current guidance from the CDC, restrictions on large gatherings, and our own focus on health and safety make it impossible to hold these cherished traditional events as scheduled," IU President Michael A. McRobbie said in a press release. "I am taking this action now so you can adjust any commencement travel plans given the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Future commencement ceremonies will be available for students that were supposed to celebrate the milestone in May “when the public health situation allows.”

The school said all IU degrees will still be awarded as earned.