College Graduations in Peril in Rhode Island, Adding Adverse Impact to Hospitality Industry

College Graduations in Peril in Rhode Island, Adding Adverse Impact to Hospitality Industry

The coronavirus’ adverse economic and societal impact now has college graduations in its crosshairs.

“In a letter to students earlier this week, President [Christina] Paxson told Brown students that the University will make a decision no later than March 27. She also promised that if it can’t be held at the traditional time, the weekend’s events will be postponed and not canceled,” said Brian Clark, Assistant Vice President for News and Editorial Development at Brown University.

Brown’s graduation is scheduled for May 22 to 24. The weekend historically starts on Friday with Campus Dance that attracts more than 10,000 to the campus. 

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

The implications for graduates, their families, and Rhode Island’s hospitality workers are massive.

College Graduation Economy

Each spring, colleges and universities in the state, from the University of Rhode Island to the Naval War College to Bryant University, graduate tens of thousands each year. Combined, the colleges, including the community colleges, have total enrollment of approximately 70,000 students.

With families flocking to Rhode Island to attend graduations, the economic impact on the state's hospitality industry is enormous. 

“That's definitely one of the most common questions, especially for graduating seniors and their families and alumni returning from reunions. At this time, we have not yet made a determination on whether Commencement and Reunion Weekend can proceed at its usual scheduled time,” said Clark.

The Omni Hotel in downtown Providence — adjacent to Providence Place Mall and the Rhode Island Convention Center -- has announced it is closed until at least June.

Brown’s graduation, like some other schools, is also their alumni weekend.

The cancelation of the University’s activities means the loss of tens of thousands of hotel nights and a blow to restaurants throughout greater Providence. Many restaurants are already buckling under the strain of the state's new coronavirus regulations. 

“Even if the Commencement ceremony is postponed, graduates will still be formally awarded degrees at the usual time, so they can move ahead with jobs and graduate school plans,” added Clark