Columbia’s Multicultural and Affinity Celebrations

In addition to the university-wide Commencement ceremony and each school’s Class Day, our undergraduate students with campus partners organize Multicultural and Affinity Celebrations that allow them to celebrate the cultural intersections in their lives and honor the communities to which they belong. These celebrations are open to anyone in the Columbia community who wants to celebrate a particular culture or group. 

Affinity groups across campus provide a network of support and connection throughout a student's time at Columbia. Celebrations include events for Asian, Black, Disability Affinity Group, First Generation and/or Low-Income, International Undergraduates, Jewish, Latinx, Lavender (LGBTQIA+), Multicultural Affairs, and Native communities. These events are meant to celebrate shared achievement and community support and are open to all members of the University community, regardless of background or identity. 

The Multicultural and Affinity Celebrations have a long history at the university, dating back to 2005 when social media first became a part of our everyday lives. Below, find more details about the celebrations and how you can attend.

Who Organizes the Multicultural and Affinity Celebrations?

Student groups and leaders collaborate with campus partners to plan these celebrations; Four of the undergraduate schools participate, and a few graduate schools. Other celebrations may be offered by select departments or student clubs around the university.

Are the Celebrations Open to Anyone in the Columbia Community?

Yes, an invitation is extended to any senior who wants to participate. There are no restrictions or requirements to attend any of the ceremonies and the larger community, including parents, family, friends, and alumni are also welcome to join. Students are typically notified through regular announcements, and student groups also promote the events within their networks.

When Did These Celebrations First Begin?

The celebration events began over 20 years ago and are a long-standing tradition in the undergraduate community, with the collaboration of student organizations and alumni.

Why Have Additional Celebrations? 

These celebrations are not unique to Columbia. Institutions around around the country also host identity-focused celebrations to honor graduates. Here, our students take the lead in planning. 

Each event is unique because it is planned by its community, both alumni and students, to honor heritage, traditions, customs, and affinity while offering an intimate setting for the community to gather. The number of tickets available for Commencement and Class Days is limited, so each multicultural and affinity celebration is organized to allow for more family and friends to join in the festivities and celebrate their graduates.  

*For more information about Multicultural and Affinity Celebrations, please contact your school directly.