As final preparations are taking place at Hard Rock Stadium for this semester’s in-person commencement ceremonies, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and the LGBTQ Student Center are each making preparations of their own for their traditional end-of-year celebrations.
Hosted by the LGBTQ Student Center, the Lavender Celebration is an annual event that recognizes our graduating lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, and ally (LGBTQIA+) students and outstanding leaders. In its seventh year at the University of Miami, the ceremony provides a space for reflection and recognition on many accomplishments and successes of the graduating class.
“Because of the extremely difficult year we’ve had, this year’s virtual Lavender Celebration is needed more than ever and promises to be extra special for our graduates, their families, and the overall University community,” said Gisela Vega, director of the LGBTQ Student Center. “Although the pandemic and racial unrest transformed students’ lives and upended what should have been a traditional final year experience, this exciting event will officially recognize our their strength, resilience, and academic achievement.”
Graduating students can participate in the celebration on Thursday, May 6 at 5 p.m. EDT. Students will receive a rainbow-colored cord that they can wear at their commencement ceremonies. Visit the LGBTQ Student Center website for more information.
In its twenty-ninth year at the University of Miami, the Senior Mwambo ceremony is an African rite of passage ceremony that marks the transition of black graduates from undergraduate experience to advanced education or professional careers.
"I am beyond excited to invite our University community to join us in celebrating the Class of 2021 after the resilience they have demonstrated this academic year," said Chris Clarke, director of the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs. "Particularly this year, the virtual celebration will highlight the accomplishments of our student leaders who have advocated for racial and social justice both on campus and in the broader community. We are better because of them, and they will truly be missed."
Participating students will receive their traditional kente stole and are encouraged to wear them at their commencement ceremonies. This year’s virtual Senior Mwambo will take place on Tuesday, May 11 at noon EDT. Visit the Multicultural Student Affairs website for more information.
