Rainbow Graduation Celebration
The Center for Student Diversity & Inclusion, the Kimmel Student Involvement Center, and the Office for the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs will host SIUE's Non-Traditional Graduation Celebration on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at 4 p.m.
What is the Rainbow Graduation Celebration?
Sometimes referred to as Lavender Graduation, Rainbow Graduation is a pre-commencement celebration to honor LGBTQ+ and ally students who, through unyielding determination and academic achievements, have successfully completed an undergraduate, graduate or professional degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. The event honors their achievements, success and leadership in the university and allows for pride and recognition of their identity.
History of Rainbow Graduation
Dr. Ronni Sanlo is widely recognized as instituting the first Lavender Graduation in 1995 at the University of Michigan where she was Director of the LGBT Programs office. By 2001, there were Lavender Graduation ceremonies at over 45 colleges and universities nationwide.
RGC Event Details
Wednesday, April 28, 4pm
Participation in the SIUE Rainbow Graduation Celebration is open to all SIUE undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who will earn their degree in May of 2021. Only students who have registered by Thursday, April 8th, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. are guaranteed to be listed in the program, receive their recognition certificate and graduation cord.
Registration is now open and can be completed by clicking HERE.
Registration will close on Thursday, April 8th at 11:59 p.m. No exception. No additional participants will be added after this date. After you register, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion at some point prior to the ceremony with details/expectations for the event.
This is a virtual event.
Zoom link: http://tiny.cc/RainbowGrad
Download the Program Booklet HERE
Cords and certificates are now available for pick up by appointment. For a pick up appointment, click HERE
SIUE Rainbow Graduation Celebration is...
- An event for graduates to invite your family, close friends and those most important to you
- An opportunity to honor YOU and all you have accomplished at SIUE
- A special gathering you would ask a favorite professor or staff member to attend
- The event where you can receive your rainbow cord to wear at your SIUE Commencement Ceremony.
This is not a commencement ceremony. It is a pre-commencement celebration honoring LGBTQIA+ students and does not replace the formal SIUE Commencement ceremonies being posted on May 7th.
