By Za’lexia Bogan | Guest Writer
LYNCHBURG, Va. – The University of Lynchburg will host its annual Donning of the Kente ceremony on Tuesday, May 13 at 5:30 p.m. in the Hall Memorial Ballroom. This cherished tradition is a pre-commencement celebration that honors graduating students of African and African-American descent for their perseverance and contributions to the university.
Gloria Simon, Director of Admissions, says she is excited for this year’s ceremony and is honored to be a part of the celebration.
“I feel that this ceremony is a way of honoring those who have gone before us, and to say that their work is not vain,” Simon noted.
The Donning of the Kente provides a culturally significant space for students and the campus community to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements over their time at Lynchburg.
At the ceremony, a keynote speaker acknowledges the significance of each graduate’s accomplishments and contributions to the community. Each student is then announced by the speaker and brought to the stage, where faculty, family, or friends will drape the Kente stole over the student’s shoulders. Graduates will often wear these stoles during their graduation ceremony as well. The tradition of wearing the Kente cloth as a graduation stole began over five years ago.
This special ceremony reinforces the university’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that values and celebrates its students.
Josiah Randles, a graduating senior, explained that his collegiate career has helped him connect more with his culture.
“In college I was able to discover my African roots and with this ceremony it is a way for me to honor where I came from,” Randles said.
To RSVP to attend this event contact Dr.Robert Canida.