On March 25, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), in accordance with the guidance of public health and government agencies, made the decision to cancel the traditional Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) commencement exercises. These exercises were originally scheduled to take place this May in Philadelphia and Georgia. This decision comes in the wake of COVID-19, a global pandemic that has prompted local and national authorities to restrict public gatherings to reduce the spread of the disease.
In his message to the community, Jay Feldstein, DO ’81, CEO and president, shared, “I am truly saddened that we had to make this decision, but we feel the need to protect the health and well-being of you, our graduates, as well as your families, friends and the larger College community during this uncertain time.”
Dr. Feldstein went on to applaud these students saying, “Change does not take away the pride we hold as we recognize our graduating students and their countless successes and profound contributions to the life of our community.”
At this time, PCOM leadership, faculty and student leaders are in discussions regarding alternative celebratory plans. Additional information on these plans will be shared with the community as it becomes available.
Learn more about PCOM's response to COVID-19.
Learn more about 2020 commencement at PCOM and PCOM Georgia.
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
For general media inquiries, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 215-871-6300 or communications@pcom.edu. Visit our media relations page to view contact information for public relations personnel.
© 2025 Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
