Colorado State University’s Pride Resource Center hosted a Lavender Graduation on April 26 to celebrate and acknowledge the members of CSU’s graduating class who are LGBTQ+.

Lavender Graduation was first created by Dr. Ronni Sanlo, a Jewish lesbian at the University of Michigan, after being refused entrance to her children’s graduation ceremony due to her sexual identity. Over the years, this celebration and acknowledgment of LGBTQ+ graduates has spread across the country.

CSU’s event was held in the Lory Student Center Theater, and included the presentation of annual Pride Resource Center awards:

Rainbow Inspiration Award

Recipient: Marianna Walsh (she/her)

This award recognizes CSU faculty and staff members based on their contribution to, involvement in, and/or impact on the GLBTQ+ populations in the general community. This award also recognizes a faculty/staff member who has helped students achieve the goals associated with the values and mission of the Pride Resource Center.

Sascha J. Franzel Ally Award

Recipient: Sky Quackenbush (she/her)

This award celebrates a student who has exemplified what it means to be an ally to the gay, lesbian, bisexual, queer and transgender (GLBTQ+) communities. This person expands their own knowledge of the history, struggles, and goals of the GLBTQ+ communities, but they also nurture the understanding of others. In their day-to-day lives, they practice inclusive language and activism that counter heterosexist and transphobic attitudes, prejudice and behaviors through educating others.

Shining Star Award

Recipient: Colette Sterling (she/her)

This award is given to a student who is a high academic achiever, initiates character development through program involvement, and demonstrates great leadership. The recipient is an individual who impacts university life and demonstrates high standards in their actions.

More information is available at the Lavender Graduation website.