The Bestowing of the Kente, a time-honored tradition and a true labor of love, will mark its 30th anniversary at Alverno this month. In 1994, 24 graduates took part in the college’s first Kente ceremony, and over the years, that number has grown to more than 900.
One of only a handful of colleges in Wisconsin to celebrate Black graduates through their own rite of passage, this beloved celebration began with two graduating students, Sherlyn Brown ’94 ’98 and Caryl Davis ’94 ’97 ’00. In 1994, they went to Sister Joel Read ’48, then President of Alverno, and asked if they could wear stoles over their gowns during commencement. According to Adekola Adedapo ’10 ’21, retired multicultural programs coordinator and advocator for the Bestowing of the Kente ceremony, they were initially told no, following a policy of uniformity. However, the administration's mind was soon changed following the idea that cultural expression is necessary.
The ceremony is a way for Black students and their families to celebrate their heritage as well as their achievement. Each honoree is presented with a Kente cloth – a hand-woven ceremonial stole featuring bright colors that honor West African heritage. All Black students and students of African descent are welcome to participate. “It’s an acknowledgement of the totality of the African diaspora,” says Adedapo.
During the ceremony, the students honor and thank the loved ones who have supported them on their educational journey. They also acknowledge and honor their ancestors whose sacrifices made it possible for them to be who and where they are today.
The impact of the Bestowing of the Kente stretches across cultures within the Alverno community. The ceremony fostered the creation of Alverno’s Latinas con Fuerza ceremony in 2017, allowing over 500 Hispanic students to participate in their own rite of passage.
“Alverno is always innovating, you can count on it,” said Adedapo.
