As thousands of college students nationwide planned to celebrate years of hard work inside and outside of the classroom this spring, the majority of commencement ceremonies were canceled due to COVID-19. The ceremony, however, often means so much much more than just walking across a stage.

Three employees at the TAO North program in Anaheim, CA, graduated with master’s degrees this spring— without an official commencement ceremony.

Despite the commencement cancellations, their coworkers decided to throw them a mini graduation ceremony at work!

A few family members were invited to attend. The graduates were provided their school’s cap and gown, walked down an aisle, and listened to personalized speeches written by upper management.

Congrats, grads!