Twelve PennWest Clarion students participated in Lavender Graduation April 27 in Shropshire Hall. The event, held by the PennWest Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, is an annual nationwide celebration at colleges and universities, honoring lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual and ally students for their achievements and contributions to the university and greater communities.

Honored graduates are: Gabriel Hoke, Ang Danen, Adanna Maltony, Rigel Wasilak, Aae Hernan, Megan Hulings, Nydirah Torrence, Summer Young, Jamir Jackson, Kalia Knight, Donovan Stevens and Carly Over.

Ron Radaker, director of the Office for Students with Disabilities and advisor of Allies Club, gave opening remarks. James Geiger, vice president for University Advancement and Clarion campus administrator, gave special remarks. Kennedy Brown, vice president of Allies Club, presented the Empty Chair Recognition. Allies president Aislinn Bentley gave the history of Lavender Graduation.

Amy Salsgiver, executive director of Equity and Title IX, announced the graduates. Dr. Deb Kelly, dean of the College of Health Sciences and Human Services, presented cords to the graduates, each of whom selected someone to place a pin on them.

Ellen Foster, professor in the Department of English, gave closing remarks.