Black Graduation Celebration 2026

 

We are pleased to invite you to Western's Black Graduation Celebration, honouring the accomplishments of Black graduates from the Class of 2026. This celebration will be held on Sunday, June 7, from 3 to 5 p.m. on campus in the Great Hall, Somerville House.

This event is open to all Black-identifying students due to graduate in the Class of 2026 (Spring and Fall) at Western, King’s and Huron across undergraduate, master’s and doctoral programs. University leaders, Black faculty and staff and Black community members are also invited to attend.  All students will still participate in Western’s convocation ceremonies as scheduled.

Western's Black Graduation Celebration is designed to recognize the academic successes and leadership of Black students graduating from Western and our affiliated institutions. We're excited to reflect upon the unique journeys of our graduates and acknowledge families, peers and mentors who have supported them along the way.

The first 50 Black graduating students from the Class of 2026 to register and attend will receive a commemorative Kente stole, a powerful symbol of scholarly achievement and pride in African Diasporic heritage.

A reception will be provided. Please let us know if you require accommodations or have any dietary restrictions.

Please RSVP no later than Tuesday, May 26. We look forward to seeing you there!

Four Black graduates stand for a photo in front of the Western purple backdrop

Registration for Graduates

Click below to register if you...

  • Identify as a Black undergraduate, graduate or doctoral student
  • Attended Western, King's University College or Huron University
  • Plan to graduate as a member of the Class of 2026 (Spring or Fall)

Frequently Asked Questions

Students are permitted to bring two guests to the celebration. When registering as a graduate, please select your preferred amount of guest tickets (1 or 2). If you'd like to bring more guests, please reach out to Marietta Clement (mcleme48@uwo.ca).
We ask that graduands arrive no later than 2:30 p.m. for the processional lineup.
Kent Drive Lot (Fowler Kennedy Clinic Parking), Medical Science Lot (Dental Patient Parking) or the Social Science Lot. Visitors should use visitor-attended lots, Honk Mobile zones or Pay & Display metered areas. For parking details, please visit Western’s Parking Services.
This is a semi-formal celebration. You are welcome and encouraged to wear bright colours, traditional wear or attire that reflects your pride and identity.
A professional photographer will be on-site and images will be shared with attendees after the celebration. Feel free to take photos and upload them to our virtual memory book on the day of the event (Memento).