Black Graduation 2017

Black Graduation 2017 continued the long tradition of joyous, emotional send-offs for Columbia students from across the African Diaspora. From the stirring rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" led by Riley Jones, to the poignant tributes from family and friends, the largest annual gathering of Columbia's black family remained jubilant and memorable.

The surprising twist this year - the graduates also made a gift to BAC!

Each year black alumni support Black Graduation, provide kente cloth stoles, and are privileged to congratulate graduates on stage as they cross from undergraduate to alumnus.  This year, the honor of congratulating new black alumni went to BAC president Kevin Matthews ‘80CC and proud parent of a member of the Class of 2017, Ted Gregory ‘74CC.

Black Graduation co-hosts Riley Jones and BAC Scholar Tiana Lino (pictured above) surprised BAC with a cash pledge collected from members of the black senior class.

It’s difficult to express what this gift means to BAC. This unsolicited gesture is touching in so many ways and makes us very proud of the students’ commitment to our community. The individual amounts given are far less important than the willingness to give, and to be part of our collective mission. It warms the heart immeasurably. 

Congratulations to the Class of 2017! And thank you.

To view more photos visit Columbia BAC on Facebook.