African / African American Graduation

18th Annual African/African American Graduation: “Unapologetically Walking in Purpose, Grounded in Legacy”

Open to All

The Annual African American Graduation ceremony is a pre-commencement celebration honoring 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 represents African and African American culture & heritage and embraces the values of community and scholarship. This celebration is open to all Peralta students.

Graduation Date:
Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 am

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

The ceremony will begin promptly at 11:00 am. No tickets are required for entry, but please be aware that space is limited.

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

Graduate Information
Arrival Time: 9:00 am, check-in.
Attire: Dress to Impress. Please wear your cap and gown.
Items to Purchase: Kente sashes will be available before the ceremony for $10.00.

A continental breakfast will be provided for graduates only from 8:30 to 10:00 am sharp. Must register your name to be in the African American graduation program by Friday, May 1st. NO EXCEPTIONS.

Graduation Information Session

Get ready to celebrate your achievement at the 18th Annual African & African American Graduation Ceremony! All are welcome!

Join us for a virtual informational session to make sure you have everything you need for this powerful cultural celebration. This is important, so don’t miss it!

Tap in to:

Get all graduation ceremony details
Learn how to participate
Prepare for a celebration rooted in culture, legacy, and excellence

This is your moment, come prepared and informed!

Unapologetically Walking in Purpose. Grounded in Legacy.

Session Dates & Times

All sessions will be held via Zoom: https://peralta-edu.zoom.us/j/86249680791

April 8, 2026: 2:30-3:30 pm
April 15, 2026: 12:30-1:30 pm
April 22, 2026: 12:30-1:30 pm
April 29, 2026: 12:30-1:30 pm

2026 PAAAA Graduation Information Session Flyer

Student Speaker Interest Form

We are seeking students who are passionate about sharing their story, inspiring others, and reflecting the spirit of perseverance, cultural pride, and purpose. Selected speakers will have the opportunity to address graduates, families, faculty, and community members during this powerful and memorable celebration. Whether your journey has been shaped by overcoming challenges, leadership, community impact, or academic excellence, your voice matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to participate in the ceremony?

Any student from College of Alameda, Laney College, Berkeley City College, and Merritt College who has completed requirements for a Certificate and/or Associate’s degree. Summer 2024/2025; Fall 2024/2025; Spring 2025/2026.

Disclaimer: We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this graduation list. However, due to processing timelines, some eligible graduates may not be included. We sincerely apologize for any unintentional omissions and celebrate all students who have achieved this important milestone.

How do I register to participate?

Students must RSVP to africangrad@peralta.edu before Friday, May 8th.

What time is the event?

The processional entrance will begin at 11:00 am.

What time should graduates arrive?

Graduates should arrive no later than 9:30 am for breakfast, check-in, and the group photo.

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?

No tickets are needed, but space is limited.

Parking Availability

There is limited parking in the church parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis. Handicapped accessible parking is available.

Will there be any refreshments?

A light continental breakfast will be provided for the graduates.

How long will the event last?

The ceremony will last about 2 hours.

What should graduates wear?

All graduates are expected to wear their campus cap & gown.

Kente Sash, available for purchase at the ceremony and beforehand for $10

Will someone be taking photographs?

A photographer will be on site to capture individual photos for purchase.

Size 5 x 7 for $20. Payment methods: Zelle, CashApp, and Venmo, and will be readily available within 5-10 minutes.

Am I able to attend my campus graduation and the African American Ceremony?

Yes, we encourage you to attend both, as this event is not to replace your campus ceremony. This cultural celebration is to honor you, your accomplishments, and those on whose shoulders you stand. We encourage you to attend both events if you choose.

Questions? Please contact one of the following committee members:

Dr. Lawrence VanHook (lvanhook@peralta.edu)
College of Alameda: Lashawn Brumfield (lbrumfield@peralta.edu)
Laney College: Douglass Cobb (dcobb@peralta.edu) | Hope Lane (hlane@peralta.edu)
Merritt College: Rose Allen (cjallen@peralta.edu)

African / African American Graduation

18th Annual African/African American Graduation: “Unapologetically Walking in Purpose, Grounded in Legacy”

Graduation Information Session

Session Dates & Times

Student Speaker Interest Form

Frequently Asked Questions

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