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KALAMAZOO, Mich.–ɫɫÀ² Michigan University's Office of Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender Student Services will host its annual Lavender Graduation ceremony at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, at the Wesley Foundation.

The free and open celebration recognizes LBGTQ students' contributions to the University and acknowledges their achievements throughout their college experience. Students are recognized for their leadership, success and achievement. This is also an opportunity to recognize faculty, staff, or É«É«À² groups who have made a significant contribution to the LBGTQ community at the University.

Lavender Graduation was created in 1995 by Dr. Ronni Sanlo at the University of Michigan and has since grown to be celebrated at universities nationwide. Studies have shown that LGBTQ students have a disproportionate rate of attending or completing college if there is a lack of support in their respective communities, families, or universities. Lavender Graduation acknowledges that disparity, celebrates LGBTQ students' identities, and recognizes their academic achievements.

For more information, email lbgt-director@wmich.edu or visit wmich.edu/lbgt/programs/lavender.

For more É«É«À² news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.