OSU Grads to Get Diploma, But No Handshake

By Colleen Chen, NEWS 9

STILLWATER, Oklahoma -- Oklahoma State University officials have decided administrators will not shake hands with graduates at this weekend's commencement ceremonies.

The change comes as a precaution against the spread of the H1N1 virus.

"Officials consulted with a campus health task force. The decision was not made from health department guidelines," University Spokesman Gary Shutt said.

Some seniors who are busy studying for finals at the library said the change is an overreaction.

"I don't think it's a matter of better safe than sorry, but instead a matter of being politically correct," one graduating senior said.

University leaders said they based their decision on a health task force they have on campus.

OSU is the only university in the state to eliminate handshaking at graduation so far. There has only been one confirmed case of H1N1 in Oklahoma.

Graduation ceremonies are scheduled for Friday and Saturday.