Introduction
The Black Excellence Graduation Ceremony is a unique, exciting opportunity to celebrate graduates from colleges spanning undergraduate, graduate, and degree programs, in one place on the same day. The ceremony showcases the perseverance of Black students who have successfully matriculated at UIC.
2025 Black Excellence Graduation Ceremony
Update regarding the Black Excellence Celebration previously scheduled for Saturday, May 10, 2025
On behalf of the Black Excellence Planning Committee, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on your incredible achievement-completing your degree at the University of Illinois Chicago! We are so proud of all you have accomplished and are excited to celebrate this milestone with you.
While we initially planned a formal ceremony, we’ve decided to reimagine the Black Excellence Congratulatory Celebration in a more personal and joyful way. Please join us for a celebratory luncheon and gift pickup on Wednesday, April 30th between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM in the African American Academic Network (AAAN) located in the Student Services Building (SSB).
During this special drop-in celebration, you will:
- Receive your Black Excellence stole.
- Enjoy lunch and connect with faculty, staff, and fellow graduates.
- Have the opportunity to record a short message of inspiration for our incoming Black freshman at UIC.
This reimagined celebration reflects the joy and pride we feel for each of you. Though it’s a pivot from our original plan, the spirit of Black Excellence remains at the heart of this gathering–we honor and uplift your achievements and send you off with love and best wishes for your next chapter.
Sincerely,
Aginah M. Muhammad, PhD
Assistant Vice Provost for Student Success
Chair, Black Excellence Celebration Committee
Scenes from the 2024 Black Excellence Ceremony
Black Excellence Graduation Ceremony 2024
Black Excellence Celebratory Graduation Ceremony 2024