Lock Haven University Holds Lavender Graduation Ceremony
LOCK HAVEN, Pa. — Lock Haven University recently held Lavender Graduation in the Parsons Union Building (PUB). Approximately 40 students, faculty, and management were in attendance at this semester’s event.
Lavender Graduation is a nationwide event that celebrates the academic achievements of LGBTQ students and allies. LHU’s ceremony was organized by the President’s Commission on LGBTQ Affairs, and celebrated the graduation of four seniors.
The ceremony began with opening remarks from Bre Reynolds, chair of the commission, followed by remarks from Robert Pignatello, LHU president. A toast was then given to graduating seniors by friends and allies and a keynote address was delivered by acclaimed comedian and actor, Vincent Ford, LHU 1996 alumnus.
In his speech, Ford remarked on his own experiences in the 90s as an openly gay student at LHU, noting both the challenges and the support system he had that helped him succeed academically and graduate with a degree in communication from The Haven.
Ford, who was accompanied by his mother, acknowledged his parents, retired LHU residence hall director Wendy Walsh and a handful of close friends as the greatest supports he had in securing a successful life as a gay student. He praised the university’s commitment to dedicated events like Lavender Graduation to give LGBTQ students a sense of belonging and visibility in the greater campus community.
Dr. Lisette Schilig, commission member, presented graduating seniors Blair Hana Brown, Sarah “Fred” Greenzweig, Jacob Houtz and Bailey Rachael with certificates, rainbow tassels and cords and graduation gifts.
Congratulatory toasts were offered to the graduates by professors Ramona Broomer, Dr. Nicole Burkholder-Mosco and Dr. Tara Mitchell; Reynolds; and Emmy Borst, residence hall director.
Houtz and Greenzweig spoke about their experiences at The Haven and thanked LHU for nurturing them academically, professionally and personally. Other speakers included GSA president Piper Harsch and Dr. Rick Schulze, of the commission.
Lavender Graduation is open to all LHU students regardless of their sexual orientation. For more information, contact Dr. Gayatri Devi at gdevi@lockhaven.edu.
