Our MSA Celebration of Graduates is an annual student-centered event celebrating all members of the graduating class cultural backgrounds and experiences. As we have supported our students during their time at NC State, we also want them to feel supported and uplifted as they enter the world with their degrees. At NC State, this tradition allows community members to pause, reflect and be inspired. This event is open to all students from all backgrounds, cultures and identities

Part of the MSA Celebration of Graduates tradition is connecting to our heritage and roots; this is typically done by sharing experiences from alumni, honoring graduates with Kente stoles, and the intergenerational transmission of knowledge through narratives.

“Take Flight: Soaring to New Adventures!”

The theme for the Spring 2026 Celebration of Graduates is “Take Flight: Soaring to New Adventures!”  This is a joyful celebration honoring all NC State graduating students (associates, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral) as they prepare for their next great adventure. Together, we’ll recognize their hard work, growth, and perseverance, while reflecting on the moments that shaped their journey. This event is a reminder that the path forward is full of opportunity each step, a chance to dream bigger, rise higher, and make a lasting impact. The world awaits, and their next chapter is just beginning!

The program is open to all graduating students, and any student at the university can register for the event on the MSA website. 

Spring 2026 Celebration Event

WHEN: May 7, 2026 from 6:30 p.m. EST. Reception to immediately follow.
WHERE: Talley Student Union Ballrooms

Please complete this form by April 28th, 2026 at 12pm if you are interested in being recognized during this celebration. Registration is now OPEN. Please register by clicking HERE.

Graduating students are encouraged to wear their graduation regalia, stoles, and/or cords at the event but are not required to. Business casual dress is encouraged for guests of graduates.

Please contact multicultural@ncsu.edu with a “MSA Celebration of Graduates Recognition” subject line should you have any questions.

Past Celebrations

Photos from our 2024 spring graduation celebration can be found here.

Our 2022 graduation theme was “Livin’ My Life,” celebrating our 2022 graduates doing their thing, overcoming trying times, and living their best lives.

Our 2021 theme focused on elevating the personal growth, learning, innovation and community unification that has come during these times. Take a look back at events and motivations for “Liberation in Spite Of…”, and our 2021 graduates.

Additional Notes

The MSA Celebration of Graduates and all MSA-sponsored and hosted programs are open to all students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members from all backgrounds. This celebration is open to graduating undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students!

ADA Accommodations Statement
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, NC State will honor requests for reasonable accommodations made by individuals with disabilities. Direct accommodation requests to Trevis Belle at ttbelle@ncsu.edu.