Florida State University News Commencement speakers urge Fall 2020 graduates to embrace today’s challenges By: Mark Blackwell Thomas, Anna Prentiss, Kelsey Klopfenstein | Published: December 11, 2020 | 8:10 pm | SHARE: President John Thrasher addresses graduates during fall virtual commencement, which was webcast Friday, Dec. 11, 2020. (FSU Photography Services) Citing their resolve and sacrifice in the face of a global pandemic, Florida State University President John Thrasher commended new graduates during Friday’s fall virtual commencement ceremony, which was webcast via WFSU and YouTube. With the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing protocols moving the ceremony online, Thrasher said he missed the opportunity to enjoy face-to-face festivities but that his disappointment was tempered by pride for this class of graduates.