Presented by the Lambda Bridges LGBTQA+ Program Office, the event recognized 10 students and allies.
"Open minds and open hearts make Cal U a better place to learn and grow," said Sheleta Camarda-Webb, director of Multicultural Affairs and Diversity Education, at the fifth annual Lavender Graduation ceremony on April 17 at Kara Alumni House.
The event, presented by the Lambda Bridges LGBTQA+ Program Office, recognized the achievements of 10 LGBTQA students and allies who will graduate in 2018:
Lakijai Bynum, business administration; Jamie D'Angelo, liberal studies; Daniela Dell'Aquila, business administration; Ashley Ivkovich, elementary and special education; Jennifer King, communication disorders; Stephanie Mandella, business administration; Summer McIntyre, psychology; Caitlin Michaels, parks and recreation management; Amanda Teti, business administration; and Cassy Zemrose, bachelor's in secondary education.
"We're all equal, and judging isn't how your fix problems," Teti said. "Having a program like Lavender Graduation makes everyone feel more comfortable."
Several students who identified themselves as allies mentioned supporting family members or friends who are part of the LGBTQA community. They came to Lambda Bridges with a goal of extending that support to the campus community and beyond.
"As a future educator, I want to support students, no matter what," said Ivkovich. "I want to be a leader and someone people can look up to."
"I want to be a role model for Fraternity and Sorority Life and with other organizations on campus," said Michaels, a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha, the Parks and Recreation Society, the Panhellenic Council Executive Board and the women's rugby team. "I want to be true to myself and comfortable with who I am."
Helping students be supportive and comfortable with who they are is the goal of Lambda Bridges, said Camarda-Webb.
"We want to recognize and celebrate students and how they contribute to a positive, warm campus environment."
Camarda-Webb also thanked alumna Jan Zivic '64, a support of Lambda Bridges and Cal U's LGBTQA community. Zivic supports Lavender Graduation and the Jan Zivic Outstanding LGBTQA Leadership Award, which recognizes exceptional leadership and service.