Graduate Affinity Brunch and Celebration

  • May 14, 2026
  • 10:30 am to 12:00 pm
  • Simmons University Library
Group of Graduate Students - Commencement 2023

The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) invites doctoral and master's degree candidates completing their degrees between August 2025 and May 2026 to the Graduate Affinity Brunch & Celebration on Thursday, May 14 from 10:30 am - 12:00 pm in the Simmons University Library.

This brunch celebrates the accomplishments of graduating master’s, PhD, and doctoral candidates. Graduates are invited to dress in regalia and are welcome to wear identity-based stoles. In addition, you will receive a complimentary multicultural rainbow cord to wear at Commencement, representing the rich tapestry of cultures, identities, beliefs, values, traditions, and life experiences that combine to form our vibrant Simmons community.

Graduates are also welcome to purchase individual cultural stoles from Midwest Global Group or another vendor. Common stoles include, but are not limited to:

  • AAPI Stoles
  • First Gen Stoles
  • Kente Stoles
  • LGBTQIA Stoles
  • Mexican Serape Stoles
  • Native American / Indigenous Stoles
  • Puente Stoles

Please note that this event is for graduates and faculty only; outside guests are not permitted to attend. 
 

RSVP by April 10

Student Speakers

We're seeking a student speaker for the affinity brunch! A graduate student will be invited to deliver a brief speech (no more than 3 minutes) at the brunch. Speeches may be inspiring, uplifting, motivating, personal, or humorous, and should reflect on the collective milestones of your peers and colleagues. If you are interested in serving as a speaker, please submit 3 to 5 example sentences of your proposed speech with your RSVP by April 10, 2026.

We look forward to celebrating with you on Thursday, May 14! More details about the program will be shared during the weeks leading up to this event.

Questions?

Please reach out to us at [email protected] with questions or concerns.