Hello All,

My name is Doniqueka Louden, and I am a senior at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, the first-degree granting HBCU. My graduation is scheduled for December of this year, but there will be no commencement.

You read that correctly. My university does not have a winter graduation for its graduates. There is only one commencement, which takes place in the spring. The 163rd commencement is quickly approaching [May 15, 2022 at 11 a.m.]. I'm thinking the December graduates will be treated similarly. Graduating from college is a significant achievement that should not be overlooked.

They claim they lack finances, but they actually have funds. With a ticket limit per family, the winter commencement can be conducted at the International Cultural Center. That is our largest building on campus, with a seating capacity of 1,040 people. Around 150 students complete their degree in December but must wait until the following spring to walk across the stage, which is extremely frustrating. We put forth the same amount of effort as the May graduates. We are entitled to a graduation.

If you agree that all December grads should have a ceremony, please sign and share this petition so that others can do the same.