In the face of unprecedented events, the University’s recognition ceremonies forged ahead and found new ways to celebrate 2020 graduates.

Recognition ceremonies allow students to commemorate accomplishments and successes. Separate from the traditional commencement ceremonies, these events create a unique space that celebrates the completion of degrees and certificates to graduates with the support of families, friends, faculty, and staff.

This year, commemorative videos included encouragement from graduates, alumni, and elders in their communities.

Lavender Graduation is a celebration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and ace-identified graduates. View the video here.

MAPS is a celebration of Middle Eastern, Asian, Pacific Islander, and Southeast Asian graduates. View the video here.

Nuestros Logros is a celebration of Latinx graduates. View the video here.

Umoja, planned by the Umoja Community Forum, uplifts, amplifies, and honors blackness and community at Illinois State. This year’s theme was “Say It Loud: We Black & We Proud.” View the video on Facebook here.