41st Annual Black Graduation Recognition Ceremony
Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 6:30 pm
Location: University Credit Union Center
Since 1985, Black Graduation has been an annual celebration honoring the personal and academic achievements of graduating students — both undergraduate and graduate — who identify with the African Diaspora or are friends of the African Diaspora community. This event differs from the UC Davis Commencement ceremonies held at the Golden 1 Center by providing an inclusive celebration that fully embraces the significance of each graduating student's experience. Black Graduation serves to highlight and honor our community’s graduates and their personal and academic achievements throughout their educational careers. All students are welcome to attend and celebrate with their peers.
Black Graduation does not have a limitation on the number of seats available for family and friends. We encourage you to participate and attend both Black Graduation and your Commencement ceremony.
Graduation FAQ
Who is eligible to participate in Black Graduation?
Any UC Davis undergraduate, graduate or professional student earning a degree from Winter 2026 through Fall 2026 awarded by the University of California, Davis, is eligible to participate in the 2026 Black Graduation Celebration which is held during Spring Quarter 2026. If you graduated in Fall 2025 and have not participated in the ceremony before, you are also eligible to participate.
How do I Register to Attend Black Graduation?
The registration for the Black Graduation Recognition Ceremony is closed for this year. There is a small participant fee for each graduate.
Image description:
Dark blue flyer with confetti images faintly on the background. Central part of flyer includes a QR code to register for the Black Graduation Recognition Ceremony (also known as Black Grad for short), and a photo of previous graduates prior to the ceremony. The flyer advertises the date and time of the event, as well as the class of 2026. Text shows to register today to join us in celebrating your accomplishment, and shows the deadline of Friday April 10, 2026 to register. Includes the logo for UC Davis CADSS.
Am I Required to Wear Regalia?
Participates are welcome to wear graduation regalia, but they are not required to participate. Regalia can be rented through the UC Davis Stores and worn for both Commencement and Black Graduation Celebration activities. You will have the kente cloth placed around your shoulders by distinguished leadership during the ceremony.
A distinctive element of the celebration is the West African Kente cloth that adorns the graduation regalia. Good news—the celebration will offer these specialized Kente cloths for FREE this year to all participants.
Can I Volunteer to Help with Black Graduation?
We have meetings for staff and faculty, graduates and student volunteers that will be held during Winter and Spring Quarters to help plan and facilitate the celebration. Meetings are either held virtually or at the Center for African Diaspora Student Success. The volunteer form is currently closed.
Staff and Faculty Participation in Black Graduation Celebration
UC Davis faculty and staff are invited to attend the annual Black Graduation Celebration as VIP guests. As a community celebration, it is critical to have the support of administrators and staff who have been mentors/advisers and contributed to the academic success of the graduates. The participation and presence of faculty and staff help to inspire, support, and uplift the community. VIP guests should arrive for the pre-graduation reception which will include music and mingling, and an administrator/faculty/staff photoshoot. Appropriate attire for this event is academic regalia or African attire. We look forward to celebrating our scholars with you!