Cultural Graduations
For many historically underserved students, graduating from college signifies success not only for themselves, but also for their families and communities. The Office of Institutional Equity and Belonging recognizes the importance of honoring this milestone.
Cultural Graduation Celebrations allow students to publicly thank those who supported them and to honor the ways they have overcome barriers within higher education. These celebrations affirm the diverse paths to academic success and complement, rather than replace, the university’s formal commencement ceremonies.
Graduation stoles are a meaningful part of Cultural Graduations and serve as visible symbols of pride, belonging, and recognition. For many students, wearing a cultural stole represents being fully seen and celebrated for who they are, both academically and culturally. Support for Cultural Graduation Celebrations helps ensure these traditions remain accessible and meaningful for future graduates.
Sponsorship Tiers
Ideal for: Major community partners, foundations, corporations, alumni groups
Impact:
- Covers stoles for approximately 75–100 student
- Provides foundational funding stability
Recognition:
- Prominent recognition as a Legacy Sponsor across all Cultural Graduation Celebrations
- Logo placement on:
- Cultural Graduation websites
- Event programs (print & digital)
- Verbal acknowledgment at all Cultural Graduation ceremonies
- Opportunity to include a congratulatory message to graduates (approved content)
- Recognition on SSU diversity and cultural graduation social media
- Invitation for representatives to attend ceremonies as honored guests
Ideal for: Local businesses, nonprofit organizations, campus departments, alumni-owned companies
Impact:
- Covers stoles for approximately 35–50 students
Recognition:
- Logo/name recognition on:
- Cultural Graduation websites
- Event programs
- Verbal acknowledgment at one selected Cultural Graduation
- Recognition in a collective sponsor appreciation social media post
- Invitation for Representative to attend a Cultural Graduation ceremony
Ideal for: Small businesses, campus partners, alumni, community organizations
Impact:
- Covers stoles for approximately 15–20 students
Recognition:
- Name listed in event programs and on Cultural Graduation websites
- Group acknowledgment during ceremonies
- Recognition in a thank-you social media post
Ideal for: Individuals, affinity groups, faculty/staff supporters
Impact:
- Covers stoles for approximately 7–10 students
Recognition:
- Name listed on Cultural Graduation websites and digital programs
- Included in a collective donor thank-you list
Ideal for: Individual donors, families, alumni
Impact:
- Partial support for stole production
Recognition:
- Name listed on Cultural Graduation donor webpage (optional anonymity)