What & Why: The founder of Lavender Graduation, Ronni Sanlo, an LGBTQ+ activist and educator, recognized the need for a distinct graduation ceremony that acknowledged and honored the unique experiences and challenges faced by students. By organizing Lavender Graduation, Ronni Sanlo created a platform for LGBTQ+ students to be recognized for their achievements, paving the way for the institutional recognition of diverse identities within the academic community. Pierce College’s Lavender Graduation encourages LGBTQ+ allies, advocates, and co-conspirators to attend and support their LGBTQ+ peers, fostering a sense of solidarity and community while promoting greater understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals among the broader student body.   

Where: Pierce College Puyallup Courtyard and MPR A&B 

When: June 4th, 2023 at 4:00p-7p  

Who can attend:   This is a FREE event with Registration Required!  

• Any graduating student who is graduating this coming June or graduated last year, 2022.   
• Guests of graduating students; this can be any number of people from your chosen family.    
• Pierce College employees who would like to support.   

Dress code: Come as you are! For this event we are centering gender euphoria—the comfort, joy and euphoria when expressing gender(s) most aligned with our identities.  E.g. formal wear, drag, cosplay, business casual  

Commencement: Pierce College Graduation June 15th: This event is NOT replacing commencement, this is an additional event for LGBTQ+ students and their allies to celebrate! For more information on commencement please visit the Pierce College commencement website.