2024 EWU LATINO & CHICANO GRADUATION

Commencement season is always an exhilarating time at Eastern, an occasion for graduating Eagles to think back on their soon-to-be-completed student journey while eagerly anticipating new opportunities and challenges.

For EWU’s Latino graduates, many of whom are the first in their families to earn a degree, the culmination of their Eastern experience is particularly poignant; a moment of celebration, reflection and excitement that is important to share with family and friends. Hence the buzz that accompanied the 3rd annual Latino and Chicano Graduation Ceremony, held June 14 in the PUB’s Nysether Community Room.

The event, in its third year, celebrated the academic accomplishments of a diverse group of students – highlighting their hard work, determination and the vibrant cultural heritage they bring to the university community.

Hosted by the Chicana/o/x Studies Program, with generous support from the president and provost’s offices, the ceremony honored 12 master’s students and 60 undergraduates. A full 75% of the graduates were the first in their families to graduate from college — milestone accomplishments that not only represent personal achievement, but also a step forward for their families and communities.

Celebrating with Friends and Families!

As the ceremony began, graduates marched into the venue to the uplifting sound of an EWU Mariachi Las Águilas performance that filled the room with joyful pride. Students were greeted by the cheering family members and friends whose support was instrumental to their academic success.

After the ceremony, graduates and guests stayed to enjoy dinner, with an accompaniment by Mariachi Las Águilas. It was a festive culmination of the ceremony that allowed everyone to celebrate together while creating lasting memories.

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It takes a village…

The event’s success was made possible thanks to about 20 volunteers who generously gave their time. Volunteers included Chicano Studies Program’s work-study students, members of the Diversified Greek Council, and others from the campus and larger community. Their efforts ensured everything ran smoothly – and helped to create an event that was memorable for all.

The ceremony was not just a celebration of academic success, but also a testament to the strength and resilience of the Latino and Chicano community at EWU. It reinforced to everyone the value of higher education and the transformative role the university plays for individuals and communities.

Congratulations to the graduates of the 2024 Latino and Chicano Graduation Ceremony! Your achievements are a source of inspiration to your families, friends and communities. We proudly look forward to the positive impact you will make as professionals and leaders.