Queen’s reverses Homecoming 2021 decision

Queen’s University Principal and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Patrick Deane announced today that plans for Homecoming 2021 have changed.

The University had previously announced in late January that Homecoming 2021 would proceed with in-person events, divided over two weekends to reduce crowding. All activities would be subject to evolving public health guidelines and considerations, they said at the time.

“After recent conversations with both the University and Kingston community including our health care partners, the City of Kingston and police, we have made the difficult decision to cease any preparations for an in-person event this fall due to concerns arising from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said a statement from Deane on the University’s website.

“Homecoming 2021 will be entirely virtual. COVID-19 has affected us all and it is clear we will be dealing with the impact of the virus for some time.”

He said the University’s priority will always be the health and well-being of the Kingston and university community, as well as delivering high quality education and services to students.

“We will continue to work closely with our community partners, as we gradually bring back our in-person campus operations and safely resume the research and teaching that is the foundation of our institution,” Deane said.