Photos By Luke Molwitz – Photographer
By Sarah Shelton – Photo Editor
Every year, the SAGE Center holds a Lavender Graduation for the LGBTQ+ students on campus.
According to the Human Rights Campaign, this is an “annual ceremony conduced by many campus to honor lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and ally students to acknowledge their achievements and contributions to the university.
This event was held April 17 in Engleman hall.
The event started with guests eating food, then a guest speaker, the Asher Wells award was given and finally, the recognition of the graduates.
The Asher Wells award is a scholarship given in honor of Asher Wells, a SAGE Center ambassador who passed away. Kyle Magri won the Asher Wells Advocacy Award for his work at “Monthly Magic,” a monthly queer spirituality event he holds in the SAGE Center and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Each graduate walked up and received a lavender cord/stoll and a 2023 rainbow tassel.
Johnathan Colascione recieving a cord from Jenna Retort.
Guest speaker sharing his story to attendees.
Southern News’ own Photo Editor/ Online Assitant and journalism major Sarah Shelton recieving her cord from Jenna Retort.
SAGE’s Graduate Intern Brandon Iovene speaking.
Kyle Magri’s “Monthly Magic” resource table at the event including rosaries, charms and more.
Kyle Magri winning the Asher Wells Advocacy Award for his work at “Monthly Magic,” a monthly queer spirituality event he holds in the SAGE Center.
Southern News’ own Editor-in-Chief and Italian major Sofia Rositani shaking Jenna Retort’s hand after receiving her cord.
Sociology major Eve Jones receiving a cord from SAGE’s Coordinator Jenna Retort.
Psychology major Tynaja Shelby receiving a cord from Jenna Retort.
