What is the Lavender Graduation Recognition Ceremony?
Lavender Graduation is a celebration that recognizes graduating students' contributions to Old Westbury and the LGBTQ+ community. Lavender Graduation is an opportunity for students, faculty, staff, and guests to celebrate the accomplishments of OW's LGBTQ+ graduates. There is also a space for graduates to recognize the significant people in their lives who have helped them achieve their goals.
When is lavender Graduation?
The 2024 Lavender Graduation will be held on May 1, 2024. Check Panther Connect for details!.
What awards may be given out during the event?
There are four potential awards:
LGBTQ+ Service and Activism Award
Recognizes a senior and member of the LGBTQ+ community for:
- Extraordinary service and outstanding leadership to support and build the LGBTQ+ campus community and to promote LGBTQ+ issues and awareness at SUNY Old Westbury;
- Commitment and outstanding contribution to raising awareness and being an activist and voice for change;
- Contribution to and involvement in SUNY Old Westbury LGBTQ+ life and enduring commitment to building community and educating the campus about LGBTQ+ issues; OR
- Tremendous effort to serve the LGBTQ+ community through building coalitions across groups at SUNY Old Westbury.
Ally Award
Recognizes a Senior for their important contributions as a (heterosexual and cisgender) friend and ally of the LGBTQ+ community. Honorees may have:
- Been an active member of the SUNY Old Westbury LGBTQ+ community;
- Helped with special projects;
- Raised awareness and participated in activism; OR
- Provided both a safe space and a voice for LGBTQ+ issues at SUNY Old Westbury.
Bridge Award
Recognizes a Senior for their excellence and commitment to building connections between the LGBTQ+ community and broader student life (Residential Life, Fraternity/Sorority life, Athletics, Student Government Association, etc.)
Faculty/Staff Award
Recognizes outstanding dedication, service, and leadership to the LGBTQ+ Students and the SUNY Old Westbury Campus Community.