Union County Review

Kean University is gearing up to celebrate the diverse identities and cultural heritage of the Class of 2024 through a series of cultural graduation events, each designed to honor and recognize the unique backgrounds of its students.

According to Erin Lester, assistant director of Kean’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the cultural graduation ceremonies are crucial in highlighting both academic achievements and the specific challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds. Lester emphasized the significance of these events by stating, “Kean’s cultural graduation ceremonies underscore the importance of academic achievement in our community, as well as the unique challenges and experiences faced by students from diverse backgrounds.”

One of the highlighted events is the newest addition, ¡Celebrando Graduación Juntos! - Celebrating Graduation Together!, specifically tailored for students of Hispanic and Latino descent. Lester reiterated Kean’s commitment to inclusivity and recognizing the diverse backgrounds of its students' heritage, stating, “As a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Kean is committed to inclusivity and recognizing the diverse backgrounds of our students' heritage. The addition of the new cultural graduation ceremony reflects that commitment.”

The cultural graduation events are open to Kean students earning bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees, allowing them to express pride in their accomplishments while celebrating their identities and heritage. These events, including the Lavender Graduation for LGBTQ+ and QTPOC students and the African Heritage Graduation Ceremony, provide a platform for students and their allies to come together in a supportive and inclusive environment.

The upcoming events include the Lavender Graduation on Friday, April 19, the ¡Celebrando Graduación Juntos! – Celebrating Graduation Together! on Friday, April 26, and the 37th Annual African Heritage Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, May 4. Students interested in attending these celebrations are required to register in advance.

For those interested in volunteering at the events, opportunities are available to assist with welcoming attendees, check-in procedures, ushering families, and other duties. Individuals looking to volunteer can reach out to the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at dei@kean.edu.