Affinity Ceremonies

Affinity Ceremonies honor the accomplishments and experiences of CSUMB graduates from historically underrepresented communities. The Affinity Ceremonies are voluntary and are open to all graduating students who would like to participate, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Ticketing information will be provided after the registration deadline.

There are ten CSUMB Affinity Ceremonies for graduating students:

Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA)
Black/African Heritage
Latiné
Family Friendly (students with children)
Native American
Shalom Otters Affinity Ceremony (Coming Soon)
Students with Disabilities (SADE)
Rainbow (LGBTQ+)
Undocu-Otters (undocumented students)
Veterans (U.S. Armed Forces)

These celebrations offer keynote speakers, performances, and cultural celebrations in addition to CSUMB's Commencement. Participation is free and open to all graduated who are interested in participating.

Graduates who register for the Affinity Ceremonies will receive a stole and certificate upon completing their participation in that ceremony. Graduates who register but do not participate in the ceremony will not receive a stole and certificate.

Graduates should note that registering for Commencement does not automatically register them for the Affinity Ceremonies, nor does registering for the Affinity Ceremonies automatically register them for Commencement.

Affinity Ceremony	Date	Time
Rainbow Affinity Ceremony	May 1, 2026	6 p.m.
Family Friendly Affinity Ceremony	May 2, 2026	11 a.m.
Native American Affinity Ceremony	May 2, 2026	5 p.m.
Undocu-Otter Ceremony	May 3, 2026	11 a.m.
Students with Disabilities Affinity Ceremony	May 6, 2026	6 p.m.
Veterans Affinity Ceremony	May 7, 2026	6 p.m.
Latiné Affinity Ceremony	May 8, 2026	5 p.m.
Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi (APIDA) Affinity Ceremony	May 9, 2026	5 p.m.
Black/African Heritage Affinity Ceremony	May 12, 2026	6 p.m.
Shalom Otters	Coming Soon	Coming Soon

* Note that dates, times, and location are subject to change.

All information for Affinity Ceremonies are due by Sunday, April 12th at midnight. For questions, email the Otter Cross Cultural Center.

Volunteer at the 2026 Affinity Ceremonies

Volunteer Form will open soon.

Whether you're a student, staff, or faculty member, there's a place for you at the Affinity Ceremonies. Sign up to volunteer and join us in honoring the hard work and accomplishments of our amazing students. We look forward to your participation.

Questions? Please email affinityceremonies@otterstudentunion.org