HONOLULU — UH Manoa will conduct three commencement ceremonies this weekend at the Stan Sheriff Center — one on May 13 and two on May 14. All will require attendees to wear masks for the indoor graduation.

The only time masks may be removed is when a graduating student poses for the on-stage photo upon receiving their diploma.

The increase in COVID-19 cases over the last few weeks prompted the change from encouraging masks to requiring them. The decision to require masks was made with the hope of keeping everyone at the ceremonies safe and limiting the rise in cases.

Wearing masks during the outdoor lei giving is encouraged.

Sarah Yamanaka is a digital journalist for Spectrum News Hawaii. Read more of her stories here.