Rights of Passage Ceremony
About the Ceremony
The Rites of Passage ceremony acknowledges and celebrates LSUA students of color, particularly those of African-American and Latin-American heritage, who successfully completed an Associate or Bachelor Degree. This event recognizes students’ accomplishments and the community that supported them, while also marking their transition from LSUA to their future studies or professional endeavors.This ceremonial pre-commencement event, embraces culture, customs, and traditions. You can expect to hear words of wisdom from notable speakers and community leaders, student recognition, and musical selections culminating with the donning of the Kente. The colorful, embroidered Kente ceremonial cloths are hand woven in Ghana and meant to connect the graduates with their ancestors.
Registration
To participate in the ceremony and receive a Kente or Serape stole, LSUA students must register online. The student must have successfully applied and received approval to graduate.
The registration link for the Spring 2023 Rites of Passage Ceremony will be accessible soon.
Schedule of Events
Spring 2023 Rites of Passage Ceremony
- Keynote Speaker: TBA
- Date: TBA
- Time: TBA
- Location: TBA
Immediately followed by a reception for graduates and guests. Vegetarian option available.
2023 Keynote Speaker: TBA
Kente Stole Significance
The Kente ceremonial cloth, originating in Ghana, is rich with symbolism. The collection of patterns visually represent several African principles. Through the donning of the Kente, we acknowledge the significance of contributions from ancestral sacrifices to the encouragement and support from each student’s “village” (family, friends, and loved ones) as they pursue their goals.
Participation Opportunities
There are opportunities for the LSUA community and community leaders to participate in Rites of Passage Ceremonies. We call these volunteers Imani which means belief and faith. Imani enhances the ceremony through speaking, music, and performances for the graduates.