Lavender Graduations are celebrations that honor graduates of the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Ronni Sanlo of the University of Michigan was inspired to hold the first Lavender Graduation in 1995 after she was unable to attend her own children's graduations due to her sexual orientation. The Lavender Graduation has become a way for universities, colleges, and high schools to create a positive memory and celebrate LGBTQIA+ students' accomplishments. 

Lavender is a color that was once weaponized against those who were openly gay and those who did not conform to gender norms. LGBTQIA+ civil rights activists of the 1960s reclaimed the color and redefined its use as a symbol of pride to be who they were. Lavender Graduations use this color in celebration, pride, and legacy, connecting the students graduating from their programs to the larger LGBTQIA+ community as a whole.

The Lavender Graduation celebration is a fun event that you may attend where we will recognize LGBTQIA+ students, present stoles, and enjoy meeting as a community. It will not replace the Colleges' Commencement ceremonies, which will have the presentation of diplomas and traditional graduation honors.

Lavender Graduation takes place at the end of April, whereas the college commencement ceremonies take place in May. 

Lavender Graduation is open to LGBTQIA+ students from all VCCCD colleges! When you RSVP, you can indicate whether you are graduating or attending as a guest. We are excited to celebrate your success with your closest supporters.

The safety of our graduates is our foremost priority in planning this event. The event details, such as time and location, is available through the RSVP process but will not be publicly announced.

When you arrive to the college campus, LGBTQIA+ and ally volunteers will be available to escort you and your guests to the venue and back to your transportation safely.

Additionally, Campus Police will be available to support the event with on-location security.

The 2025 Lavender Graduation will be hosted by Ventura College. Please make arrangements to get to and from the location. We highly recommend carpooling when possible. 

VCTC Transit Routes & Schedules

Nominate an individual for a Lavender Graduation Award!

Are there students, faculty, staff members, or administrators you'd like to honor at Lavender Graduation? Nominate an individual for their outstanding leadership, commitment, dedication and service within the College/University for the LGBTQIA+ community.

To ensure your safety and the safety of others, our Lavender Graduation attendance requires you to RSVP. After you fill out the RSVP form, you will be contacted via email to learn more about the event details.