Last night, 33 Ohio University seniors were recognized for their accomplishments in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community at Pride Graduation.
“The big graduation is … this mess of people, and it’s really chaotic, but here, everyone you love and care about is eating and celebrating our accomplishment of graduating,” said Sarah Stevens, a senior studying theater and women’s and gender studies.
Pride Graduation is an annual event that recognizes seniors who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, ally or other. Beginning with a welcome speech by LGBT Center Director Mickey Hart, the night included dinner, a time to recognize and hear from each senior and a presentation of superlative awards. This year had the largest turnout yet: 72 students, staff, family and friends attended the event.
Seniors decide to participate in the three and a half hour event for various reasons. For seniors Jason Porter and Kate Steven, who have worked at Pride Graduation for the past three years, this is the first time the celebration has been for them.
“It’s really cool to see the most influential people of the last four years here,” said Steven, who is studying health counseling and psychology. “The event is very intimate and personal and we get to celebrate each individual.”
When a senior’s name is called, they are given a rainbow tassel, an LGBT Alumni pin and a chance to speak about their future plans and their proudest moment. Stevens, who brought her parents to the event, planned her comments in advance.
“I’m going to say that I am most proud of finding a community that not only accepted me but celebrated me and taught me to celebrate who I am,” she said.
For Porter, the event provides necessary closure.
“It’s my last LGBT event in Athens,” he said. “It marks the end of an era for me.”
To help mark the bookend for these seniors, Pam Benoit, OU’s executive vice president and provost, attended the event. She went around to each table and introduced herself, asking seniors about their future plans.
“It’s important to meet them and say that we are very, very proud of them,” she said. “It’s a way of recognizing that this community is very much a part of the university … and we recognize their accomplishments.”
At the event to recognize their daughter’s accomplishments were Stevens’ mother and father. Her father, Larry Stevens, said he has learned a lot from his daughter during the past five years.
“I just wish events like this weren’t so taboo,” he said. “It’s going to take many years to improve the situation … and Sarah’s helping.”
jc543108@ohiou.edu
@ThePostCulture
