Lavender Graduation Celebration and Pride Mixer

The Kimmel Belonging and Engagement Hub, and the Office for the Vice Chancellor for Anti-racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will host SIUE's Lavender Graduation Celebration and Pride Mixer in the Morris University Center on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 4 p.m.

We encourage students to join us at the Graduation Celebrations for all the identities with which they align and feel affirmed.

Event Details

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 4 p.m., Conference Center, Morris University Center

Participation in the SIUE Lavender Graduation Celebration is open to all SIUE undergraduate, graduate, and professional students who will earn their degree in the spring of 2025. Only students who register are guaranteed to be listed in the program, receive their recognition certificate and graduation cord.

Registration Information

Click to complete the registration form which opens March 1, 2025 and closes April 17, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.

• Student Registration will close on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. No additional participants will be added after this date.  After registering, students will receive a confirmation e-mail from the Kimmel Belonging and Engagement Center with details/expectations for the event.   
• Faculty, staff and other guests can register to attend the event by completing the guest registration form. 

*This is an in-person event in the Conference Center of the Morris University Center

 What is the Lavender Graduation Celebration?

Sometimes referred to as Rainbow Graduation, Lavender Graduation is a pre-commencement celebration to honor LGBTQIA+ 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 Lavender 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.

SIUE Lavender 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.