30th Annual Black Graduation Celebration & Kente Ceremony

Date and Time

Sunday, June 07, 2026 - 7:00 PM
Sunday, June 07, 2026 - 9:30 PM

Event Comments:

The Black Graduation Celebration and Kente Ceremony is a pre-commencement celebration to honor African, African American and Afro-Caribbean students and their peers who through unyielding determination have successfully completed an undergraduate or graduate degree from the University of Washington. The Ceremony is representative of African, African American, and Afro-Caribbean culture and heritage, embraces the value of community and scholarship, and culminates with a Kente Stole presentation. This is a Celebration for Graduates to be recognized for their accomplishments and an opportunity to honor significant people who have helped them achieve their goal. Students are honored together in one setting and their families also get the opportunity to celebrate their hard work and dedication

Location:

Alaska Airlines Arena

Cap & Gown Required? / Dress Code

Yes
Graduates are strongly encouraged to wear their graduation regalia (cap/gown) and or cultural attire.

Ticket Information:

To register to participate in the 2026 Black Graduation Celebration, please register at https://bit.ly/uwbgc2026. Registration closes on Friday, May 8, 2026. The Black Graduation Celebration is a non-ticketed event and graduates are welcome to invite as many family and friends to join them in the celebration.

Parking Information

If you wish to park on campus for this event, a UW Special Event Parking Permit will be required. Students should purchase these permits for themselves and their guests through the Commencement Registration/Order Form, May 11 to May 24, 2026. Day of parking may be available for additional cost, but lot selection and availability are not guaranteed.

Hosted By:

UW Black Graduation
Black Graduation

Event Contact:

UW Black Graduation Celebration Planning Committee
206-543-4635
uwblackg@uw.edu

Map / Location

3870 Montlake Blvd NE, Seattle, WA 98105