Cultural convocations highlight the community students gained alongside their degrees

Fall 2019 commencement has begun, which means numerous celebrations are taking place throughout ASU’s campuses within academic and other communities. 

Among those are special-interest convocations, which are more intimate celebrations for graduates of different cultures and backgrounds. Here students can be individually recognized for their success surrounded by family members, teachers, peers and community members. 

Participating in these convocations as a graduating or continuing student can help raise awareness and provide an additional sense of pride in how unique the ASU truly is. The ceremonies give students the chance to share their stories of struggle and perseverance while pursuing their degrees.

The Black African Convocation in spring 2019

For graduating student and single father Nakia Gorden, attending the Black African Convocation means being able to show his son that anything is possible. 

Gorden will be receiving his bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies with a focus in U.S. history and African American studies.  

“I want to thank my son. I don’t think people realize how much I pull from him. To be able to do this while my son watches me is the most amazing thing in the world,” Gorden said. 

Not everyone understands the struggles that students sometimes go through to get their degrees. Special-interest convocations recognize the hard work and dedication that students put in throughout their time at ASU. 

Continuing students are encouraged to attend to celebrate and draw inspiration from their peers as they share their stories of achievement in ceremonies which also speak to the unique cultural backgrounds and experiences of graduating Sun Devils. 

Soon to be graduate and global studies major Andrea Brambila will attend the International Student Stole Ceremony and is thankful for the friends she made for being a big help in her time at ASU. 

“I would like to thank my friends because they always have my back. They have supported me throughout this time that I have been here… and just having them around has made it so joyful,” Brambila said. 

Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students Cassandra Aska encourages students, graduating or not, to attend these convocations. 

“The celebrations are important to ASU because each one reflects rich traditions embedded in the community being recognized. This is part of ASU’s commitment to inclusion, creating an opportunity for our diversity to be celebrated,” Aska said. 

Special-interest convocations are places where students can proudly represent their diversity and yet create a sense of unity. 

“I enjoy seeing students express their joy and share their personalities when crossing the stage. I have been moved to tears by the inspiring and revealing speeches given by the selected student speakers. It’s an experience radiating community and individualism altogether,” Aska said. 

To learn more about the special-interest convocations and when they will take place, visit the ASU graduation website.