The Loft (4th Floor of the Hub)
Honoring the Class of 2025
The Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) warmly invites you to a powerful afternoon of celebration, community, and culture at the 4th Annual Black Excellence Graduation Celebration. Join us as we honor the outstanding achievements of our Black graduating students.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM (Ceremony begins)
- Location: The Hub, McMaster University Main Campus
- Theme: “Eban – A Symbol of Safety, Security & Community”
- Refreshments: African and Caribbean-inspired fusion by Afrolicious
Event Purpose
Black Graduation Ceremonies are profound acknowledgments of the unique experiences faced by Black students in higher education. They serve as intimate gatherings where graduates can celebrate their achievements in an environment rich with cultural significance and mutual support. These ceremonies provide a platform for graduates to honor those who’ve supported them and to express their individuality beyond the traditional commencement.
Theme: “Eban – A Symbol of Safety, Security & Community”
In the Akan culture, the Eban symbol represents protection, security, and the safe haven that community provides—a perfect reflection of what Black Grad is all about. This event is more than a ceremony; it’s a space to honor success while reaffirming the power of community.
Why Attend?
By attending, you’re not only celebrating academic success but also embracing a tradition that reinforces community bonds and cultural pride. This celebration creates a meaningful space where graduates can fully express their identities and acknowledge their journey with those who understand its significance.
Event Highlights
Special Gift for Graduates: A Kente Stole
As part of our tradition, the first 100 graduating students to register will receive a beautiful Kente Stole, symbolizing academic achievement and cultural pride, as our gift to you. Secure yours by registering early.
Venue: The Hub – Where Celebration Meets Community!
This year, we’re back home on our beautiful main campus. Join us in elevating the energy at The Hub, McMaster’s vibrant gathering space designed for connection, celebration, and unforgettable moments. Get ready for an inspiring, joy-filled afternoon in a space where celebration meets community.
Delicious Refreshments
Enjoy an African and Caribbean-inspired fusion catered by Afrolicious.
Capture Your Memories at McMaster’s Scenic Spots
Our campus offers numerous picturesque locations perfect for commemorative photos:
- University Hall and Gilmour Hall Archway: This iconic spot, nestled between historic buildings, provides a timeless backdrop for your Black Grad photos.
- Lush Gardens and Pathways: Explore the serene gardens and winding paths throughout campus, offering natural settings for intimate and group photos.
- The McMaster Museum of Art Grounds: Featuring unique sculptures and well-manicured lawns, this area adds an artistic flair to your pictures.
- Cootes Paradise: Adjacent to campus, this beautiful nature reserve offers stunning natural landscapes, perfect for those seeking a more rustic backdrop.
We encourage all attendees to take advantage of these scenic spots to capture the joy and significance of this special day.
Registration Information
Graduates & Guests
Secure your spot and be part of this monumental celebration. Spots fill up fast!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you.
How much does a ticket cost?
Tickets for the Black Excellence Graduation Celebration are complimentary for all attendees.
Can I bring guests?
Yes! Graduating students are welcome to invite one guest to the celebration. To help us plan accordingly, please ensure your guest is registered through the BSSC Black Excellence Graduation Microsoft Form.
If you wish to bring additional guests, please be mindful that The Loft has limited seating. While we are excited to celebrate your achievements alongside your family and friends, priority seating will be reserved for you and your fellow graduates. Additional guests are welcome to attend; however, there is a strong likelihood they may need to wait in an overflow area if seating reaches capacity.
We appreciate your understanding as we work to create a meaningful and intimate celebration for our graduating class.
Who is eligible to attend?
The celebration is open to all Black-identifying students graduating in the Class of 2025, across all academic levels (Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Professional degrees). Additionally, invited members of the McMaster community are welcome. If you are not part of the graduating class but are interested in attending, please complete the registration form to express your interest.
Where will the event take place?
The event will be hosted in the luxurious Loft space within The Hub, located at 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8.
What is the dress code?
We encourage attendees to wear formal or traditional attire that reflects their personal or cultural heritage. This year, we want to celebrate your style and self-expression, so graduates will not be wearing robes as they cross the stage. Instead, this is your moment to show off your outfit, represent your identity, and celebrate your achievements in a way that is uniquely you! You will still have the opportunity to wear formal academic regalia at your official convocation ceremony.
Is this event the same as the official convocation?
No, the Black Excellence Graduation Celebration is a unique event, separate from McMaster University’s official convocation ceremonies. While convocation is the formal conferral of degrees, this celebration is a special opportunity to honor the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black graduates within our community in a way that reflects our shared culture and joy.
We encourage all graduating students to attend their official convocation ceremony, where you are welcome to proudly wear your Kente stole as a symbol of your accomplishment and heritage. McMaster fully supports and encourages graduands to incorporate this meaningful tradition into their convocation experience.
What is the duration of the event?
Graduating students are expected to arrive at 1 P.M to prepare for the celebration. The celebration will commence promptly at 2:30 p.m., followed by a reception. The event is expected to conclude by approximately 5:30 p.m.
Will accessible seating be available?
Yes, accessible seating arrangements will be provided. If you require any accommodations or have specific accessibility needs, please contact us at bss@mcmaster.ca to ensure we can facilitate your participation comfortably.
Where can I park for the event?
Parking is available on campus near The Hub. We recommend using the parking facilities located at [provide specific parking lot information or a campus map link]. Please note that standard parking rates may apply. https://parking.mcmaster.ca/
Are students graduating in October eligible to participate?
Yes, students who are scheduled to graduate in October 2025 are welcome to participate in this celebration. We recognize and honor all graduates from the Class of 2025.
If I cannot attend the event, can I still receive a Kente stole ?
We understand that some graduates may be unable to attend the celebration but still wish to receive a Kente stole. Please contact us at bss@mcmaster.ca to discuss arrangements for obtaining your stole.
If I have additional questions, whom should I contact?
For any further inquiries or clarifications, please email bss@mcmaster.ca. Our team will be happy to assist you.