A message from Chancellor Andrew D. Martin
A message from Dr. Mark Kamimura-Jiménez
May 2020 Commencement Videos
Although present circumstances prevent us from honoring them in person, we take tremendous pride in the achievements of our graduates.
Each affinity program’s celebration is listed here. If videos are available from May 2020 Commencement, they are posted on the pages below.
Affinity Recognition Ceremonies honor the accomplishments and experiences of graduating students from historically marginalized and underrepresented communities. These ceremonies highlight the personal and academic successes that have shaped a student’s journey at Washington University in St. Louis. While celebrating common experiences, affinity recognition ceremonies also provide an opportunity to share unique traditions and rituals.
These celebrations can include a keynote speaker, faculty/staff speakers, student speakers, awards and recognitions, announcement of graduating student’s name, and more. Some events include light refreshments. All celebrations include reflection, gratitude for our students, and inspirational messages for the future. Graduating WashU students may participate in any and all Affinity Recognition Ceremonies that they self-identify with.
WashU typically hosts nine affinity recognition ceremonies. The list of events hosted is not exhaustive of the many historically marginalized and underrepresented identities our students hold. The ceremony with the longest tradition at WashU is the Black Senior Alliance celebration. The newest ceremony is the Indigenous students celebration. Many of these events were established in response to needs expressed by students. We value supporting students and their diverse and intersectional identities and experiences through these events.