Commencement
Learn more about Commencement, held every year in Bender Arena. Ceremonies include both undergraduate and graduate students for each school.
Contact Us
Monday-Friday 9a.m. - 5p.m.
Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8127
United States
Affinity Graduation at 51²è¹Ý
51²è¹Ý’s Affinity Graduations are designed to celebrate the academic achievements of students from historically underrepresented communities: Asian & Pacific Islander, Black/African heritage, Latin(o)x, Lavender, First Generation students, and the Veteran and Military-Affiliated community.  It also serves as an introduction to the alumni network, highlighting opportunities for life-long connection and volunteer engagement for continued campus involvement post-graduation. We host six (6) individual affinity graduations to promote the celebration of diversity and inclusion, and the various intersections of identity that contribute to the fabric of 51²è¹Ý.ÌýÂ
51²è¹Ý Affinity Graduations were established in 2017 and have evolved and increased affinity representation. 51²è¹Ý’s commitment to affinity graduations aligns with our Plan for Inclusive Excellence and our collective efforts to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of graduates from historically marginalized and underrepresented communities.
Fall Affinity Graduation Toast
Affinity Graduation ToastÂ
Thursday, December 5 | 4:00-6:00±Ê²Ñ
MGC 128
Affinity Graduation FAQ
What are affinity graduations?
The 51²è¹Ý’s Affinity Graduations are designed to celebrate the commencement and academic achievements of students from historically underrepresented communities: Asian & Pacific Islander, Black/African heritage, Latin(o)x, PRIDE, First Generation students, and the Veteran and Military-Affiliated community.  It also serves as an introduction to the alumni network, highlighting opportunities for life-long connection and volunteer engagement for continued campus involvement post-graduation.Ìý
Who is able to receive an Affinity Stole?
Affinity Stoles are for graduating students attending the Affinity Graduation Ceremonies, on a first come, first served basis, and while supplies last. Graduating students who are unable to attend the ceremonies may pick up stoles on a first come, first served basis after the ceremonies have concluded while supplies last.
How do I get an Affinity Stole if I cannot attend Affinity Graduation? Do I need to pay for it?
Graduating students who are unbale to attend the ceremonies may pick up stoles on a first come, first served basis after the ceremonies have concluded while supplies last from the Office of Student Engagement. There is no cost to you for Affinity Stoles at this time.Ìý
What if I identify with more than one group?
You may attend as many Affinity Graduation ceremonies as intersects with your identities.
Do I have to pay to attend Affinity Graduations?
Affinity Graduations are free to graduating students.
What If I am unable to attend my affinity graduation at the time it is held, is there another one?
Unfortunately, Affinity Graduations happen once in the spring and once in the fall.
How long are Affinity Graduations?
The Affinity Graduation program will run between 90 minutes to 120 minutes.Ìý
What happens at an Affinity Graduation Ceremony?
The ceremony includes a welcome from key campus administrators and student leaders, and a stole donning ceremony that honors the identities of students graduating and explains the meaning of the selected stole.Ìý
Will there be graduate photographs taken?
Yes, group photos will be taken at Affinity Graduation. The university reserves the right to publish photos taken at the event online.
What is the attire for the ceremony? Am I required to wear my cap and gown?
We recommend business casual. Your cap and gown can be worn if you have them, but this is not required.
Can I wear my affinity stole to the university commencement?
Yes! We hope you will proudly wear your Affinity Stole at commencement.
How do I volunteer at Affinity Graduations?
- If you are a faculty, staff, or student, you may volunteer at Affinity Graduation. Please sign up for the ceremony you wish to volunteer at here: .
What if I have more questions?
If you have questions about Affinity Graduations or Affinity Stoles, please contact studentaffairs@american.edu.ÌýPlease note: The Commencement Office does not oversee the Affinity Graduations or distribution of Affinity Stoles.
Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI)
Learn more about CDI and how they support LGBTQ, multicultural, first generation, and women's experiences.
Student Support
Our support offices include health and wellness centers, international student services, Dean of Students, restorative practices, and 51²è¹Ý's food pantry.