Your Commencement 

Commencement is a time of celebration of all you've achieved and become. In addition to crossing the stage, there are a number of ways in which you can not only continue the celebration but also honor the people who helped you along the way.

Commencement speakers

There are typically several speaker roles for graduates to fill at both the undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies:

Coordinator of Ceremony: Serves as the emcee for graduation. Addresses the audience multiple times throughout the ceremony.

Invocator: Says an inclusive prayer near the beginning of the ceremony.

Student Speaker: Celebratory remarks to and on behalf of the graduating class (length of speech: 5-7 minutes).

Speaking roles are awarded based on an audition process. You can find additional information on the graduation Moodle course (GRF-400 for undergraduate students and GRF-600 for graduate and doctoral students). Contact the Dean of Students office to learn more.

Cultural ceremonies

The Cultural Ceremonies (Bestowing of the Kente and LatinXs Con Fuerza) are culturally grounded rites of passage in which we honor our graduates and their African and LatinX heritage. The ceremonies also provide an opportunity for graduates to recognize and express deep gratitude to those family, friends and loved ones who supported their collegiate journey. Graduates who participate will have a stole bestowed upon them as part of the ceremony as a special message of thanks is read aloud. 

Graduating students who would like to participate in this beautiful ritual must complete a two-step process.  Family, friends and loved ones are welcome to attend. No ticket is necessary for this event, and a reception will immediately follow.  Contact Multicultural Coordinator Karena Washington with questions.

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, Dec. 10 at 2:30pm - the Bestowing of the Kente and the LatinXs Con Fuerza ceremonies will take place concurrently in separate spaces, with a joint reception at 4:30pm.