Native American House Congratulatory Ceremony

Picture of Alma Mater decorated in a Native blanket with different shades of blue and white, as well as a graduation stole with Native/geometric designs in darker colors. There is also a big "I" in orange, blue and white leaning against Alma Mater. There are clear blue skies and the Illini Union in the background, alongside trees and plants.

The Native American House is honored to recognize and celebrate Native American, Alaska Native, First Nations, and Indigenous students graduating from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). Throughout the event, you will hear congratulatory messages from Elders, University leaders, members of the Native higher education community at UIUC, and other special guests. We will also celebrate with traditional songs, dances, and a graduate blanket ceremony. To close, guests will enjoy a Native-themed buffet-style dinner.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024

Time: 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Location: Illini Union: Rooms A, B, & C

Graduating students are invited (but not expected) to wear traditional dress to the Ceremony, in place or in addition to the cap and gown. Regalia is also welcome; keep in mind you will be blanketed during the Ceremony.

Registration Deadline

TBA

Graduating students must register before the deadline to guarantee participation and recognition in the printed program. 

Native American House Stole

During the in-person Ceremony, participating graduates will be presented with a Native American House commemorative stole. In addition to symbolizing academic achievement, the stole brings visibility to the scholarly participation and determination of Native American, Alaska Native, First Nations, and Indigenous students at UIUC. 

Keynote Speaker

TBA

Congratulatory Ceremony Program

TBA

FAQs

When should I arrive?

The doors to the venue will open at 3:30 p.m. Graduating students, please arrive between 15 and 20 minutes before the event begins to locate seating for yourself and accompanying guests. Seating for guests is on a first come, first served basis.

Is the event space ADA-compliant?

To request disability-related accommodations for this event, please contact the Interim Assistant Director of the Native American House, Eduardo Martinez, at emarti45@illinois.edu. 

Can I take pictures?

Yes. However, in our effort to create a culturally safe space, do not take pictures during prayers or when the Master of Ceremonies has said not to. If you wish to take pictures of dancers in regalia, it is always good to ask first.

Additional Questions?

Please email the Native American House at nah@illinois.edu