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Lavender Ceremony
The Lavender Ceremony and Reception welcomes all graduating members of the UB LGBTQ+ Community from all majors, all levels of education, in various programs and from various backgrounds.
Recognizing the challenges that many LGBTQ+ students face on their journey to graduation, the Lavender ceremony provides the opportunity for graduating students, family, friends, faculty, administrators, peers, allies, and supporters to embrace each student as they celebrate graduating at UB. During the Lavender ceremony, graduates receive a rainbow tassel, lavender plant, lavender UB pin, etc
Date and Location
Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 3–5 p.m.
Location: UB North Campus, Center for the Arts Drama Theater
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 for the ceremony. On the day of the ceremony, you can visit the Guest Services kiosk in the Center for the Arts for assistance.
Important: Apply for Your Degree
2025 Commencement information is available. Please review this and other important checklist steps on the UB Commencement website.
Questions?
Contact the Intercultural and Diversity at stu-idc@buffalo.edu 716-645-2434
Eligibility
- You must be a registered undergraduate or graduate/professional student or a PhD candidate who will graduate in Summer 2024, Fall 2024, or Spring 2025.
- You must complete the registration form by 11:59 pm on March 21, 2025 for Lavender 2025.
Regalia and Attire
The Rainbow Tassel
This tassel is given to students who participate in UB’s Lavender Reception and Ceremony, celebrating achievements of graduating students who identify with the LGBTQ+ community.
Memory Slideshow:
- It’s time to look back and share your memories! Upload your favorite photos of life at UB—from with your favorite culture clubs and friends to your favorite IDC events, lounging in the student union, dance competition, and more.
- Photo submission deadline is Friday, March 21, 2025
This award honors an LGBTQ+ faculty or staff member, who is highly dedicated to fostering a positive, inclusive, climate on campus for LGBTQ+ individuals This may include inclusive curriculum practices, advocating for policy changes, raising awareness through programming or educational initiatives, or going above and beyond to ensure that the UB community has a brave and supportive space to fully express their authentic selves.
2024 - Ben Fabian
2024 - Emma Fabian
2023 - Da'Shun Harrison
2022 - Rachel Parino
2021 - Danielle Johnson
2020 - no ceremony
2019 - Rev. Christopher Goodwin
2018 - Justin Azzarella
2017 - Dale Bauman
2016 - Matthew Crehan
2015 - Margaret Sallee
2014 - Kiera Duckworth
2013 - Jeffrey Platt
2012 - Jonathan Katz
2011 - Danielle Johnson
2010 - Dr. Theresa Miklitsch
2007 - Dr. Sherri Darrow
LGBTQ Faculty and Staff Association's Pride Scholarship
During the Lavender Reception and Ceremony, the Pride Scholarship is awarded by the University at Buffalo’s LGBTQ+ Faculty and Staff Association to a student who demonstrates academic success, financial needs, and a commitment to LGBTQ advocacy or education.
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