EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University's Center of Race and Ethnicity (CORE) returns with its annual Multicultural Graduation Celebration, an annual event dedicated to recognizing the achievements of graduating students of color. More than 90 students will attend this year's celebration on Friday, Dec. 15, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in EMU’s Student Center Ballroom located at 900 Oakwood St. in Ypsilanti. This event is free and open to the public. 

"The Multicultural Graduation Celebration is a beautiful expression of EMU's commitment to diversity and inclusion,” said Sariah Metcalfe, program coordinator of CORE. “We are incredibly proud of our graduating students of color, and we are honored to celebrate their achievements and cultural heritage."

The celebration, which also highlights domestic and international students, honors the diverse cultural tapestry within the University’s student body through music, performances, speeches, accomplishments, and contributions of students of color. The event also provides an opportunity for graduates to celebrate their successes with their families, friends, and the wider EMU community.

This year’s keynote speaker is EMU’s Interim Associate Provost and Associate Vice President of Academic Programs and Initiatives, Doris Fields. Fields is an EMU alumna, former part-time instructor, faculty member, and administrator at EMU. Fields strongly focuses on developing policy recommendations to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion across the campus community.

"Diversity is not just a buzzword; it's the heartbeat of our shared humanity,” said Fields. “As we celebrate the achievements of our graduating students of color at EMU's Multicultural Graduation Celebration, let us remember that true success lies in fostering an inclusive environment. I am honored to be part of this historic occasion as the keynote speaker, and together, we can continue to shape a campus community where diversity, equity, and inclusion are not merely aspirations but lived experiences."

Each participating graduate will receive a stole of their choosing, symbolizing their cultural heritage and academic journey. The Multicultural Graduation Celebration is a historic occasion hosted on EMU’s campus filled with pride, camaraderie, and the recognition of the unique contributions of EMU's diverse student body.

Doors open at 5 p.m., and early arrival is encouraged to allow time for the entrance screening process. To ensure attendees' safety, individuals can bring the following bags into the center after inspection: a small clutch no larger than 4" x 6"; a clear plastic/vinyl bag no larger than 12" x 6" with one side completely clear of any logo or decoration; or one-gallon clear plastic freezer bags.

For more information, visit the Multicultural Graduation Celebration webpage.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 14,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.