
Lavender Graduate Celebration
Lavender Grad was started in 2006. This event commemorates the accomplishments of the LGBTQIA+ communities and their allies.
For many historically underrepresented and traditionally marginalized students, graduating from college signifies success not only for themselves but also for their family and friends. The Intercultural Center recognizes the importance of this milestone with celebrations that offer Saint Mary’s students the opportunity to publicly thank the people who helped them on their journey.
Lavender Graduates
Madeleine Alt
Amanda Ausonio
Diana Carey
Alyx Carpenter
Alexia Castro Morales
Jynelle Christine Cedro
Emily Conway
Sophia Courtemarche
Alexis Flores
Jazmine Godinez
Sean Hennigan
Christelle Julia Jara
Madelyn Kenshol
Mayson Lord
Julia McCormack
Courtney Metz
Samantha Newman
Brenda O’Connor
Benjamin Rings
Jaida Rocha
Manal Sadek
Ryan Sinclair Shepherd
Taylor Welsh
Awards

Dr. Michael Hoffshire
Director, Student Engagement and Academic Success
PAUL GIURLANDA AWARD
Awarded to an SMC faculty or staff member who the graduating class believes has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community at Saint Mary’s

Alyx Carpenter
Bachelor of Arts, Politics & Women’s and Gender Studies
STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARD
Awarded to a graduating student who the graduating class believes has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership to the LGBTQIA+ community at Saint Mary’s
Staff and Faculty Congratulations
A compilation video message of congratulations and best wishes from just some of the SMC faculty and staff whom the graduating class identified as influential mentors and professors along their respective journeys.
Features: Alicia Rusoja, Álvaro Ramírez, Amissa Miller, Carrie Davis, Cathy Davalos, Cesar Ramos, David Quijada, Denise Witzig, Emily Klein, Jeanine King, Jennifer Pigza, Kathy Littles, Legacy Lee, Loan Dao, Maria Luisa Ruiz, Michael J. Viola, Myrna Santiago, Scott Schonfeldt-Aultman and Ynez Wilson Hirst