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ALANA Celebration
At the conclusion of each academic year, the Intercultural and Diversity Center hosts ALANA (African, Latinx, Asian, and Native American), a celebration open to all, centering around the shared experiences of historically racially underrepresented cultures, who have successfully completed an undergraduate or graduate/professional degree from the University at Buffalo.
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Date and Location
Date: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Time: 2 p.m.
Location: Center for the Arts
Eligibility
- You must be a registered undergraduate or graduate/professional student or a PhD candidate who will graduate in Summer 2025, Fall 2025, or Spring 2026.
Accommodations
Guests and Graduates requiring accommodations:
If you or a guest need special accommodations, please email us. We’d be happy to meet with you to determine your needs. On the day of the celebration, you can visit the Guest Services kiosk in the Center for the Arts for assistance.
Attire
As this is not a degree conferral ceremony, graduates are invited to wear business attire or cultural attire in place of caps and gowns.
The Kente Stole
The Kente stole is given to students who participate in UB’s ALANA celebration, which historically has honored graduating African, Latino/a, Asian, and Native American students.
Event Sponsors
Memory Slideshow
- It’s time to look back and share your memories! Upload your favorite photos of life at UB— photos of your favorite clubs and friends, your favorite IDC events, lounging in the student union, dance competitions, and more.
Important: Apply for Your Degree
2026 Commencement information is available. Please review this and other important checklist steps on the UB Commencement website.
Every year, the ALANA Celebration of Achievement committee selects a student speaker for their commencement celebration.
Your speech should offer a student perspective and help audience members, especially graduates, celebrate their unique experiences at UB while envisioning their future as UB alumni. The speech length should be limited to 4-6 minutes.
Even if you're not able to attend the ALANA celebration, you can still make a difference! Consider volunteering or making a donation to help make this milestone event even more special. Your support means the world!
Give to ALANA
Help us continue to grow our ALANA celebration, honoring the achievements of these students for years to come at UB. Your support will make a difference in bringing our community together while helping to promote an understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures at UB.
Your Academic Commencement
To learn more about your respective academic department's ceremony, please visit: buffalo.edu/commencement.
Intercultural and Diversity Center
Student Life
University at Buffalo
240 Student Union, North Campus
Buffalo, NY 14260
Phone: (716) 645-2434