The Lavender Reception is one of four university-wide recognition ceremonies held during commencement season.

A graduate affixes a pin to their shirt.

Each graduate received a certificate and a rainbow tassel.

Graduates pose with their rainbow tassels and the lavender rose they each received.

Lia Munoz, student programming coordinator with the Intercultural and Diversity Center, gives welcoming remarks at the beginning of the ceremony.

Justin Azzarella, vice president for community development for Evergreen Health, delivered the keynote address.

Liz Humphrey (right) and Jacob Bleasdale of the Intercultural and Diversity Center prepare to present the Lavender Award.

From left: Intercultural and Diversity Center associates Liz Humphrey and Jacob Bleasdale, and Lavender Award recipient Mak DePetrillo, who is a candidate for a BA in health and human services. DePetrillo will serve with Americorps in Buffalo for the next year.

Graduates may wear the rainbow tassel to their commencement ceremony.