Graduation is a rite of passage. Each year, hundreds of Lynn University graduates prepare for the moment they, their families and their professors have been waiting for: commencement.

In early 2020, global circumstances related to the novel coronavirus closed campus and moved learning to a virtual environment. Shortly thereafter, guidance from health and government officials limited in-person gatherings and upended the class of 2020's commencement plans. The university announced that it would postpone its in-person commencement ceremony and promised it would find a way to mark the end of the journey—without replacing the traditional ceremony.

Graduates frequently share three things they look forward to from commencement: The ceremonious walk across stage, shaking President Kevin M. Ross' hand, and the "moment" it all becomes real: Cue the blue and white confetti cannons.

With graduates studying from home and with Tik-Tok fandom and self-made videography on the rise, Lynn got creative. The "Confetti Challenge" invited class of 2020 graduates to submit videos or photos of them dropping confetti to mark their transition into the post-collegiate life. Students used common household items ranging from shredded paper to fallen foliage. In true social media fashion, students who participated also nominated three fellow grads to do the same.

Lynn added all shared videos and photos to the university's Instagram account for others to view and follow along. The campaign generated thousands of views as graduates threw confetti from their living rooms, balconies and front lawns. Lynn plans to feature the best submissions in future commencement materials.

Lynn also helped graduates bring the celebration home by offering customizable "Congrats grad" yard signs. Students could select from a pre-made sign or editable template that allowed personalization. Lynn Creative Services and local print shops produced the signs, which popped up on family lawns across the country.

Though the confetti challenge and yard signs helped graduates celebrate virtually, the university plans to hold a ceremony for the class of 2020 "in real life" at the conclusion of the Spring 2021 semester. Lynn will provide updates, including a date, time, location and format as details are finalized.