The Black Graduates Recognition Ceremony is a pre-commencement celebration to honor African and African American students who, through unyielding determination, have successfully completed an undergraduate or graduate degree from CSU Bakersfield. The Ceremony is representative of Black culture and heritage, embraces the value of community and scholarship, and culminates with a Kente Stole presentation. This is a Celebration for Graduates to be recognized for their accomplishments and provides an opportunity to honor significant people who have helped them achieve their goals. The ceremony reinforces the bonds of scholarship and extends the sense of community and belonging. The intimate ceremony is open to all students and centers around the Black culture.
The Kente Ceremony
Kente is native to Ghana and was developed in the 17th century by the Ashanti people. It has its roots in a long tradition of African weaving, dating back to about 3000 B.C. Often reserved for royalty, the stole is a visual representation of history, philosophy, ethics, oral literature, religious beliefs, social values, and political thoughts. During the Ceremony, each graduate will be gifted with a Kente stole.
2025 Ceremony
The 2025 Black Graduates Recognition Ceremony will occur on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 am in the Icardo Center. Registration fee is $40 and payable online through your my乐播传媒app最新版本 to participate in the ceremony.
Eligibility
- You must be a registered undergraduate or graduate/professional student at 乐播传媒app最新版本
- You must have completed your degree requirements in the Fall of 2024 or who have applied for a Spring or Summer 2025 graduation.
- You must complete the registration form and submit payment by Friday, April 25, 2025.