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Affinity Commencement Celebrations

Honoring Our Journeys, Celebrating Our Futures

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Affinity Commencement Celebrations at AU

American University’s Affinity Commencement Celebrations recognize the academic achievements and unique identities of our graduating students and welcome them into the AU Alumni affinity community. These celebrations provide an opportunity to reflect on accomplishments, connect with peers, and establish lifelong ties to the AU community. They highlight the richness of our shared experiences and the promise of future success. 

We host eight (8) individual Affinity Commencement Celebrations to honor the diverse backgrounds and contributions of our students. These events exemplify AU’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment that values and celebrates the unique paths of all graduates. 

Since their establishment in 2017, the Affinity Commencement Celebrations have grown to reflect a spirit of connection and inclusivity. These celebrations align with AU’s mission to create a supportive environment where every student can thrive and leave a lasting impact on the world. 

Spring Affinity Commencement Celebrations

Affinity Graduation Ceremonies 
Date and Time Information: TBD

Affinity Commencement Celebrations FAQ

The American University’s Affinity  Commencement Celebrations 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, Native American and Indigenous, 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. 

Affinity Stoles are for graduating students attending the Affinity Commencement Celebrations, 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.

You may attend as many Affinity Commencement Celebrations as intersects with your identities.

Affinity Graduations are free to graduating students.

Unfortunately, Affinity Graduations happen once in the spring and once in the fall.

The Affinity Graduation program will run between 90 minutes to 120 minutes. 

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. 

Yes, group photos will be taken at Affinity Commencement Celebrations. The university reserves the right to publish photos taken at the event online.

We recommend business casual. Your cap and gown can be worn if you have them, but this is not required.

Yes! We hope you will proudly wear your Affinity Stole at commencement.

  • If you are a faculty, staff, or student, you may volunteer at Affinity Commencement Celebrations. Sign up form coming soon!

If you have questions about Affinity Commencement Celebrations or Affinity Stoles, please contact ie@american.edu. Please note: The Commencement Office does not oversee the Affinity Graduations or distribution of Affinity Stoles.

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