Lavender Ceremony
The ceremony is an annual celebration conducted on numerous campuses to honor lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual students and to acknowledge their achievements and contributions to the college.
May 19, 2025 | 10 a.m - 12 p.m. | Buchner Hall
*Private event for participating graduating seniors and their guests
The Lavender Ceremony was created by Dr. Ronni Sanlo, a Jewish Lesbian, in 1995 who was denied the opportunity to attend the graduations of her children because of her sexual orientation. Originally called the "Rainbow Reception", it has been a Goucher tradition since 2008, started by Goucher faculty after experiencing the Kente Ceremony.
The Lavender Ceremony recognizes LGBTQ+ students of all races and ethnicities and
acknowledges their achievements and contributions to Goucher as students who survived
the college experience. During the ceremony students share their hopes and dreams
with one another and are recognized for their leadership, successes, and achievements.
Those who participate in the Lavender Ceremony will receive the lavender cord, which
serves as a recognition of their achievements and symbol of their overall journey
at Goucher.
More Information
- The Lavender Ceremony is an intimate gathering with a welcome remark, alum keynote address, and a reception.
- All participants will receive a lavender cord and a tassel of choosing.
- In respect for those who have not disclosed their sexual and gender identity, this
ceremony will be by invitation only.
Photos from the Lavender Ceremony 2023
