California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) announced Wednesday that commencement ceremonies scheduled for Friday and Saturday have been cancelled due to the numerous wildfires in the San Diego area.
“As a first-generation college student myself, I understand the importance and significance of crossing the stage at Commencement to receive a degree,” CSUSM President Karen Haynes said in a statement. “It not only has special meaning for you but also for your extended family and friends who have supported you in your journey along the way. Canceling Commencement was not a decision we took lightly and we are saddened by the circumstances. Safety continues to be our first concern.”
Additionally, the CSUSM campus was evacuated and housing residents were evacuated to Mission Hills High School. All classes and finals have been cancelled for the week.
Currently a total of nine fires are burning in the San Diego area, reports the Associated Press. The fires are covering an area of more than 14 miles and have forced thousands from their homes. San Diego Unified School District campuses, as well as most other schools in the county will be closed on Thursday.
Gov. Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency for San Diego County. Wild fires have come early this year, most likely due to drought condititions. Normally Southern California experiences a rash of blazes in October.
Photo via Twitter.
