Affinity Ceremonies

Affinity Ceremonies, formally known as Affinity Graduation Celebrations, honor the accomplishments and experiences of CSUMB graduates from hxstorically underrepresented communities.

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 Affinity Ceremony they identify with.

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	Location
Rainbow Affinity Ceremony	May 6, 2023	11 a.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
Veteran Affinity Ceremony	May 6, 2023	5 p.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
Undocu-Otter Affinity Ceremony	May 7, 2023	11 a.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
Students with Disabilities Affinity Ceremony	May 12, 2023	6 p.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
APIDA Affinity Ceremony	May 13, 2023	11 a.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
Native American Affinity Ceremony	May 14, 2023	11 a.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
Family Friendly Affinity Ceremony	May 14, 2023	5 p.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom
Chicanx/Latinx Affinity Ceremony	May 15, 2023	6 p.m.	Monterey Conference Center
Black/African Heritage Affinity Ceremony	May 19, 2023	6 p.m.	Otter Student Union, Ballroom

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

All information for Affinity Ceremonies are due by Sunday, April 9 at midnight. For questions, email the Otter Cross Cultural Center.

Registration for the 2023 Affinity Ceremonies is now closed.

Volunteer at the 2023 Stole Ceremonies

Are you looking for a way to give back to your community and make a difference? Volunteer at this year's Affinity Ceremonies and be a part of something truly special.

Why volunteer? You'll have the chance to help celebrate the achievements of graduating CSUMB students and support their transition into the next phase of their lives. You'll also get to work with a team of dedicated individuals who share your passion for education and community building.

Whether you're a student, staff, or faculty member, there's a place for you at the Affinity Ceremonies. Apply now and join us in honoring the hard work and accomplishments of our amazing students.