Lavender Graduation

HISTORY

Lavender Graduations are ceremonies intended to celebrate the achievements of LGBTQ+ college and university graduates. The origin of the concept is credited to Dr. Ronni Sanlo, a pioneering LGBT educator and activist, and the first ceremony was held at the University of Michigan in 1995, under Dr. Sanlo’s tenure as Director.

Read more about the history of Lavender Graduation ceremonies here.

OUR CEREMONY

We celebrate graduates of both Purdue Fort Wayne and IU Fort Wayne on the Monday before Purdue Fort Wayne's Commencement. Any LGBTQIA+ student graduating during the current academic year (Fall, Spring, or Summer) is eligible to participate in the Spring Lavender Graduation.

Each graduate is presented with a lavender honor cord by the Chancellor and Chief Diversity Officer, which they may wear with their academic regalia at commencement. Students are encouraged to invite friends, family, and others who helped them on their path to graduation to join us in celebrating their achievements.

2024 CEREMONY

The 2024 Lavender Graduation Celebration will be held on Monday, May 5th, from 3:30 PM to 5 PM at the Rainbow Sculpture Park (next to the Liberal Arts Building; rain location will be in Walb 114).

Students wishing to participate should register here!