Traditions & Special Events

Beginning with the final days of classes and continuing through Commencement, the university offers a range of events honoring the graduating class. These traditions and celebrations provide opportunities for graduates, families and friends to gather and mark the milestone. Review the schedule below for details.

Traditions

• Graduate Student Bell Ringing | Thursday, April 23 | 3:30-5 p.m.
  Bell Ringing — Last Day of Classes | Friday, May 1 | 10 am.-4 p.m.
• Senior Class Dance | Wednesday, May 13 | Sunken Garden tent (Weather location: Sadler Center, Chesapeake Rooms) | 9 p.m.-midnight
• Candlelight Ceremony | Thursday, May 14 | Wren Yard | 9:00 p.m. 
• Walk Across Campus | Friday, May 15 | Wren Building | 4:30 p.m.

Special Events

• Phi Beta Kappa Initiation | Thursday, May 14 | 1:00 p.m.
• Vanguard Celebration | Thursday, May 14 | 4:00 p.m.
• ROTC Commissioning | Thursday, May 14 | 5:00 p.m.
• Khatalampay Celebration | Thursday, May 14 | 6:30 p.m. | Sunken Garden
• Lavender Celebration | Friday, May 15 | 8:30 a.m. | Sunken Garden
• Donning of the Kente | Friday, May 15  11:30 a.m. | Sunken Garden
• Ceremonia Raíces | Friday, May 15 | 2:00 p.m. | Sadler Commonwealth
• Spiritual Celebration | Friday, May 15 | 2:30 p.m. | PBK Concert Hall