Black Graduation is an annual ceremony that commemorates graduating seniors at UC Davis who identify with the African diaspora. This graduation is different from the UC Davis colleges' commencement, as it is a culturally relevant and inclusive ceremony celebrating the Black community. Black Graduation serves to highlight and honor our community’s graduates and their personal and academic achievements throughout their educational careers.
This annual celebration does not conflict with the traditional university commencement. The university commencement ceremonies are organized by the individual colleges and schools. Black Graduation does not have a limitation on the number of seats available for your family and friends. We encourage you to participate and attend both events.
Eligibility
Any UC Davis undergraduate, graduate or professional student earning a degree from Winter 2025 through Fall 2025 awarded by the University of California, Davis, is eligible to participate in the 2025 Black Graduation Celebration which is held during Spring Quarter 2025 in June 2025.
Submit Registration Form to Participate
Participants will need to fill out the 2025 Black Graduation registration form. You will need to log into the form using your UC Davis login.
Please note, it is FREE to participate in the celebration.
Graduation 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.
Kente Cloth
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.
Participate in Graduation Planning
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.
Watch Previous Graduation Ceremonies