The virtual parties and gatherings are continuing, at least for now, and this extends to all the 2020 graduates. It’s an unfortunate time to graduate from college, with the COVID-19 pandemic preventing grads from around the world to physically attend their respective commencement ceremonies, an important rite of passage for any graduate. 

We’ve already seen Pharrell participate in a virtual graduation for Norfolk State University. However, YouTube is putting together their own 2020 commencement ceremony, “Dear Class of 2020,” and there will be massive stars in attendance (virtually, of course). The Obamas are expected to make an appearance at the virtual ceremony, alongside artists like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys and more. As far as celebs go, Bill and Melinda Gates, Jennifer Lopez, Zendaya, Hasan Minhaj and more will be popping up.

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Now, YouTube has revealed that the Queen B herself will make an appearance. Beyonce is expected to deliver an inspirational message for YouTube’s online event, which will be streaming on June 6 at 3 PM ET. 

As far as music goes, BTS, Lizzo, Doja Cat, Megan Thee Stallion, Chloe x Halle, Camila Cabello, among others, are expected to perform during the live stream.

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Pharrell Williams dropped by webcam to the virtual graduation ceremony for Norfolk State University, an HBCU in his hometown of Virginia, to give a surprise commencement speech to all the graduates. On Saturday, (May 10th), NSU unfortunately had no choice but to conduct their ceremony virtually as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, but one VA native did what he could to raise the graduates’ spirits by offering them some inspiring words in these troubling times.

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“Even if this is not the norm, you guys and girls still deserve all the praise,” Pharrell said in his speech. “You stuck it through, you made it and today’s your day.” He also explained his close connection to the university, despite never having attended. He revealed that the the NSU marching band, known as the Spartan Legion, actually inspired him to learn how to play instruments and make music when he was younger. He even invited the Spartan Legion to play at his Something In the Water festival this year, before it was postponed due to COVID-19 concerns. “That would’ve been like closing my eyes and really actually seeing my childhood dreams come full circle,” he said about the band performing at his festival.

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The surprise definitely helped brighten everyone’s day, as one graduate by the name of Patsy Douglas told CNN, “His message inspired me to keep going and striving for the highest regardless of the circumstances. His words and affirmation to the class of 2020 will be forever carried in all of our hearts.” Watch Pharrell’s full NSU commencement speech below: