Stanford University has canceled plans for a “traditional” commencement ceremony this year in light of COVID-19, while its campus will also remain shut through the rest of the academic year, the provost said Thursday.

In a letter to students, Provost Persis Drell wrote that the possible extension of county and statewide near-lockdowns were likely to be extended, making both in-person classes and commencement impossible.

“We are making the decision in recognition of the seriousness of the global public health challenge in front of us, and we are making it now in order to assist your planning to the greatest extent possible,” Drell said, adding, “I share your disappointment at having to arrive at this place, which again is the product of the extraordinary circumstances around us.”

The university had already been hit with coronavirus by the time it called off classes earlier in March, with a faculty member confirmed to have the illness. On March 14, students were sent home en masse after one tested positive; the campus newspaper The Stanford Daily has since reported three more positive cases.

On Wednesday, San Jose State University — along with all other California state universities — likewise postponed its May commencement festivities.

Stanford’s spring quarter will start one week later to help professors prepare and allow recuperation time after a challenging winter — excepting the law, medical and business schools, Drell said.

There will also be no typical exam period to close out the year.

As for what could replace commencement — which was slated for the weekend of June 14 this year — plans are up in the air: Drell said administrators were working on a “number of options” to help families and students celebrate.