2025 Black Graduation Celebration - Friday, April 25, 2025, 1:00 - 3:00 pm, Fieldhouse Arena (Allendale Campus)

The purpose of the Black Graduation Celebration is to provide a celebration that is representative of Black/African American and African tradition, heritage, culture, and legacy. We want to encourage students to set their sights on the completion of their chosen majors, and as a recruitment tool to motivate others to pursue advanced degrees at Grand Valley State University after seeing the success of their peers. 

Over the years, Black Graduation Celebration ceremonies have become an essential expression of a rite of passage at many colleges and universities throughout the nation, and we hope that the celebration will serve as a tool to encourage academic excellence and community responsibility.

Details and Frequently Asked Questions

The purpose of the Black Graduation Celebration is to provide a celebration that is representative of Black/African American and African tradition, heritage, culture, and legacy. We want to encourage students to set their sights on the completion of their chosen majors, and as a recruitment tool to motivate others to pursue advanced degrees at Grand Valley State University after seeing the success of their peers. 

Over the years, Black Graduation Celebration ceremonies have become an essential expression of a rite of passage at many colleges and universities throughout the nation, and we hope that the celebration will serve as a tool to encourage academic excellence and community responsibility.

1. Who is invited to participate in the Black Graduation Celebration?

The Black Graduation Celebration is designed to honor Black culture. Students are allowed to bring guests with them to the event itself. This event is open to all faculty, staff, and students. 

2. When does registration open? 

Registration is open to all students who are within 30 credits of graduating from GVSU. Registration has now closed. Please contact [email protected] for questions about participating.

3. What do I need to wear? 

We ask that all students participating in the celebration wear all black. Professional or business casual attire is recommended. Do not bring your cap and gown. Please see the photo gallery for examples.

4. What time do I need to arrive? 

We ask that all students participating in the celebration arrive between 12:00 pm and 12:30 pm and come upstairs to the upper arena lobby to check in.

5. Where do my guests and I park? 

Students and guests are invited to park in Lot C.

6. What time do the doors open? 

Guests are welcome to enter and get seated starting at 12:00 pm.

7. If I cannot attend the celebration, can I still receive a stole? 

Yes, you are able to still receive a stole. Please contact [email protected] to receive a stole.