With University commencement ceremonies rapidly approaching, many UNM students are looking forward to additional programs planned to commemorate the end of their college days.
El Centro de la Raza is planning its own graduation for students, said Rosa Cervantes, student programs specialist for the program.
"This is not to replace UNM's commencement by any means," Cervantes said. "This is just a specialized cultural and personal graduation for our students."
Cervantes said the graduation differs from a larger graduation because of the intimate and family-oriented setting. She said when students walk across the stage, their accomplishments are read in English and Spanish. Students also write 25 words to be read on their behalf.
"This is a celebration of overcoming struggles," Cervantes said. "Many of these students are first-generation college students."
Eduardo Anaya will be receiving degrees in criminology and computer science next weekend at The Pit, but said he is anxious to participate in the El Centro de la Raza graduation.
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"This is a chance for us to lead the way for others," Anaya said. "It is an opportunity to feel proud about what I have accomplished."
Vicente Griego has already participated in the El Centro de la Raza graduation, and said the event was unique and specific to honoring him and his family.
He said the graduation was special to him because of the prayers that were said at the beginning of the ceremony, and because of the feasting on enchiladas after the event.
"This is about honoring our ancestors and our descendants," he said.
James Aranda also cherished his graduation and said the one word that typifies the ceremony is "familia."
The El Centro de la Raza Graduation will take place Saturday at 2 p.m. in Johnson Center.
American Indian Student Services will also be sponsoring a graduation ceremony for its students.
Scheduled for May 13 at 6 p.m. in the SUB Ballroom, the graduation ceremony will recognize more than 300 American Indian students from about 100 tribal nations.
"This is special because the tribal leaders come and speak to their students," said Pamela Agoyo, director of American Indian Student Services. "This is special for the community."
Agoyo said students are recognized for various achievements and are given opportunities to say their goodbyes to their peers, faculty and staff members.
She also said the program is blessed to have such tremendous support from the administration.
"The president, the provost and the deans all participate in the ceremony," Agoyo said.
While African American Student Services does not hold an additional graduation ceremony, they do host an awards and recognition ceremony every spring.
"We recognize our students not just academically, but for volunteering and community service as well," said Scott Carreathers, director of African American Student Services.
"We have so much participation with the awards ceremony, we don't have a separate graduation."
