16th Annual African/ African American Graduation "Stepping Into Our Future, Inspired by Our Past"

 

2024 Graduation Photo Gallery

The African and African American Graduation ceremony is a pre-commencement celebration to honor African and African American students who, through unyielding determination, have successfully completed an Associate Degree and or Certificate from a Peralta Community College. The ceremony is representative of African and African American culture & heritage and embraces the values of community and scholarship.

Graduation Date:
Saturday, May 18, 2024 at 11:00 am 

Location:
Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church, 408 W. MacArthur Blvd. Oakland

Ceremony will begin promptly at 11:00 am. No tickets are required for entry. Please be aware that space is limited. COVID-19 protocols will be observed.

Graduate Information
Arrival Time: 9-9:30 am, check-in and Continental Breakfast.
Attire: Dress to Impress. Please wear your cap and gown.
Items to Purchase: Kente sashes will be available before the ceremony. $15.00 donation.
Photographers will be available for photos.

Click Here to submit your RSVP

Frequently Asked Questions

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Who is eligible to participate in the ceremony?
African and African American students from College of Alameda, Laney College, Berkeley City College, and Merritt College who have completed requirements for a certificate and/or Associate’s degree in summer 2023, fall 2023, or spring 2024 are invited to participate.
How do I register to participate?

Students must RSVP to africangrad@peralta.edu ASAP.

What time is the event on Saturday, May 18th?
The ceremony begins at 11:00 am sharp. 
What time should graduates arrive?
Graduates should arrive between 9:00 - 9:30 am for registration, instructions, refreshments, photos, etc.
Where is the event being held?
Evergreen Missionary Baptist Church 
408 W. MacArthur Blvd. Oakland @ Webster Street 
(across the street from Mosswood Park)
Do my guests need tickets to attend?

Your guests do not need tickets, but space is limited.

What is the parking situation at the church?

There is limited parking in the church parking lot on a first come, first served basis (enter on Webster St). Lot will be closed at 9:30 am. Street parking is available. 

Will there be any refreshments?
We’ll be providing light breakfast for the graduates.
How long will the event last?
The ceremony will last approximately 2 hours.
What should graduates wear?

All graduates are expected to wear their school’s cap & gown. They can be purchased at your campus bookstore. This includes your cap, gown, and tassel.

Peralta Colleges BOOKSTORE WEBSITES to purchase and pick up your cap, gown & tassel:

Additionally, the graduation committee will have beautiful kente cloth sashes available for purchase at the church for $10. The first 85 students will be able to purchase sashes with “Class of 2024” embroidered on them. The kente sashes are to be worn with your cap & gown. 

Will someone be taking photographs?
There will be a photographer on site. You can purchase 5x7 photos directly from him for $20 each. (Photos will be available approx. 5 minutes after being taken). He accepts cash, Cashapp, Venmo, or Zelle.
Can I attend the African graduation and my College’s graduation?
Yes. This event is not meant to replace your College’s graduation ceremony. This is a special cultural celebration to honor you, your accomplishments, and those on whose shoulders you stand. We encourage you to enjoy both events if you choose to.
Questions? Please feel free to contact one of the following committee members: