Saturday, June 14, 2025
6:30 - 8:30 PM
Mondavi 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 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.
How do I Register to Attend Black Graduation?
The registration for the Black Graduation Recognition Ceremony closed on April 28, 2025. Please note, it is FREE to participate in the celebration.
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 African Diaspora community. VIP guests should arrive for the pre-graduation reception which will include food, light music, 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! For questions about participating, please email us at cfadss@ucdavis.edu.