It's some good news for students preparing to graduate in the months ahead.

For many seniors last year, celebrating the last year of high school or college did not pan out as planned when the pandemic put a temporary end to any mass gatherings. For the Class of 2021, it will be a much happier ending.

Earlier today Governor Cuomo announced that starting May 1st both indoor and outdoor graduation ceremonies will be allowed under updated state guidance. A statement on the Governor's website says "ceremonies will be allowed with limited attendee capacity, depending on the event size and the location" and all state health guidelines and protocols will need to be followed. For both indoor and outdoor events, proof of vaccination or having a negative COVID test will be optional. Outdoor venues that hold 2,500 or more people will be capped at 20 percent capacity and indoor venues that hold 1,500 or more people will be limited to 10% capacity. Capacity percentage limits for smaller venues will be higher, which can be found here.

For any graduating Seniors this year, I could not think of any better news as students wrap up their high school and college careers. Looking back on my various graduations, the act of completing any phase of education by getting that degree is not only an important rite of passages, but is also one last opportunity to see  classmates and celebrate the relationships forged through the whole educational process. Through the years we get to continue some of those relationships and revisit some, but they will never share that common space of celebration after graduation. After what has been a challenging year, this year's Senior's I am sure are more than ready to celebrate completing their journey.

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KEEP READING: Here are the most popular baby names in every state

Using March 2019 data from the Social Security Administration, Stacker compiled a list of the most popular names in each of the 50 states and Washington D.C., according to their 2018 SSA rankings. The top five boy names and top five girl names are listed for each state, as well as the number of babies born in 2018 with that name. Historically common names like Michael only made the top five in three states, while the less common name Harper ranks in the top five for 22 states.

Curious what names are trending in your home state? Keep reading to see if your name made the top five -- or to find inspiration for naming your baby.

 

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