Lafayette celebrates Lavender Graduation

Lafayette’s Gender and Sexuality Resource Center (GSRC) and Alumni Relations recently hosted the second annual Lavender Graduation, a ceremony that celebrates the achievements of LGBTQIA+ students within our College community.

“Lavender Graduation provides a space for LGBTQIA+ students to be recognized for their contributions to our community, while also acknowledging the unique challenges and barriers that these students have had to face during their college experience,” shares Tommy Lee, assistant director for gender and sexuality programs. “By holding Lavender Graduation, our institution sends an important message that we value and support our LGBTQIA+ students, and we commit to them that we will continue to advocate for greater inclusion and acceptance within the broader academic community.”

The ceremony also included special recognition extended to President Nicole Hurd. “We gifted President Hurd a lavender tree as a symbol of our appreciation for her commitment to creating an inclusive academic community that values and supports the achievements of LGBTQIA+ students,” Lee shares. “The lavender tree is a living plant that is symbolic of growth, resilience, and ongoing progress. It represents the continuous efforts of Lafayette to cultivate an environment that is welcoming and supportive of LGBTQIA+ students. The tree also serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and sustaining this progress to ensure that it continues to thrive for years to come.”