Commencement

Stole Ceremonies

Stole Ceremonies, formally known as Affinity Celebrations, honor the accomplishments and experiences of CSUMB graduates from historically underrepresented communities. For specific information in this year's ceremonies, please visit the Otter Cross Cultural Center (OC3) Page.

There are nine CSUMB Stole Ceremonies for graduating students: 

  • Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA)  
  • Black/African Heritage
  • Chicanx/Latinx 
  • Family Friendly (students with children) 
  • Native American 
  • Students with Disabilities (SADE)
  • Rainbow (LGBTQ+) 
  • Undocu-Otters (undocumented students) 
  • Veterans (U.S. Armed Forces)

These celebrations offer keynote speakers, performances and cultural celebrations separate from CSUMB's Commencement. Participation is free and graduates may register for each Stole Ceremony they identify with.

Graduates who register for the Stole Ceremonies will receive a stole and certificate for completing their participation. Graduates should note that registering for Commencement does not automatically register them for the Stole Ceremonies, nor does registering for the Stole Ceremonies automatically register them for Commencement.