On the morning of April 26, 2025 at the Cherrydale Alumni House, Furman hosted its first Lavender Celebration, celebrating and recognizing graduating LGBTQ+ students.
The event opened with welcoming remarks by Lauren Pollino ‘23, Assistant Director of Alumni and Parent Engagement. In her introduction, she recognized the tremendous work and valuable groups that made this event possible, including the LGBTQ+ Faculty/Staff committee, Furman Pride Alliance and the LGBTQ+ Alumni council.
Along with speeches from Liv Fletcher ‘24 and Katherine Gallagher-King ‘99, the ceremony included the presentation of stoles to the graduating students and a dive into the history of Lavender Celebrations.
The very first Lavender Graduation Ceremony took place at the University of Michigan campus in 1995, organized by Dr. Ronni Sanlo. Dr. Sanlo, a Jewish lesbian, was prohibited from her own children’s graduation due to her sexual orientation. This led to her understanding the hurt and discrimination shared by her LGBTQ+ students. In creating the Lavender Celebration, she was able to pave a way to uplift and celebrate all students.
This year, Furman was able to bring this joyous event to the Furman community. Pollino ‘23 noted that “the LBGTQ+ story should be one of joy and celebration.” This ceremony was also one of reflection and hope for the future. “…Today reminded me to slow down and appreciate the journey and the work it took to get here,” mentioned Chad Boltz ‘18.
The ceremony also celebrated and remembered the life of Stasi Hester ‘24, who would have graduated alongside the class of 2024. It is without a doubt that she continues to live on in the hearts of those she shared her happiness and light with.
The Lavender Celebration was open to all current students and members of the Furman community. An attendee commented, “Having a campus where queer people feel supported is essential, especially for those of us who are still not out to our families.”
In a survey done by the Trevor Project in 2024, nearly half of LGBTQ+ youth experienced bullying, and those who reported having been bullied had higher suicidality rates than those who were not bullied. Alternatively, those living in accepting communities attempted suicide at half the rate of youth in unsupportive communities.
Furman University, while full of diverse ideas and experiences, could always be more colorful. In an environment where sexual orientation can put individuals at risk, it is vital that they are seen, recognized and celebrated.
“You deserve to be here, and you deserve to be queer. Whether that is loud and proud or kept quietly, every journey and every path is valuable” said Liv Fletcher ‘24.
For more info on LGBTQIA+ resources, visit the Out at Furman webpage.
