Although it’s called “lavender graduation,” this ceremony will be rainbow-colored – graduates will wear rainbow tassels and cords, aside from traditional graduation garments.

In the fifth lavender graduation, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Center will offer upcoming graduates an opportunity to share their special moment with families and friends in an intimate setting on April 25.

“I like to think of it as an additional graduation – it’s important to acknowledge the accomplishments of our graduates, despite the difficulties they endure,” said Jennifer Miracle, director for LGBT. “In the LGBT community, there is sometimes pressure to remain invisible … so even in the face of their struggles, they are still graduating.”

The LGBT center opened in 2005 to create a welcoming space for all LGBT students. Through programs and services, the center offers a support system like a close-knit family for students.

“Lavender graduation is extra special because a lot of students have made the LGBT center a second home,” said Jeananne Tiffany, a graduate student from Virginia and member of the LGBT advisory board. “Students will be able to share with one another their experiences, and they’ll get to walk with people they consider family.”

LGBT’s program also will present a keynote speaker, typically a successful University alum who happens to be a member or ally of LGBT. The inspirational speech will be given by Diego Sanchez, the first openly transgender person appointed on the Democratic National Committee. As legislative assistant for Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass), Sanchez advocates LGBT and human rights issues.

“The University of Georgia has a particular warm spot in my heart, and I accepted the offer as soon as I learned about it,” Sanchez said. “I believe that it’s important to gather and recognize each other, and [lavender graduation] gives LGBT people an opportunity to promise to each other, ourselves and others that we will contribute to equal rights and strength in the community.”

Sanchez is the only known male letterman to have earned his letter on the women’s tennis team at the University.

The ceremony is opened to the public and will be followed by a reception sponsored by Last Resort Grill.

“You don’t have to be a friend or relative of the graduates to attend,” Miracle said. “If you’re an ally and you want to attend, you’re welcome to do so – it’s certainly not only for a specific group of people.”