Rites of Passage
Rites of Passage Ceremony
The Rites of Passage Ceremony is a pre-commencement celebration honoring Black and Latino culture. The event recognizes Rutgers-Camden graduating undergraduate and graduate students hard work, and dedication, while simultaneously acknowledging the accomplishments of their families and networks of support. Distinguished speakers, student awards, performances, and the incorporation of African culture and Latin traditions—specifically the culminating medallion bestowing—all add to the vibrancy of this celebratory cultural day.
Participation in the Rites of Passage Graduation Ceremony is open to all Undergraduate and Graduate students who have earned their degree between August 2025 and May 2026.
Friday, May 15
5 – 7 p.m.
Rutgers University–Camden, Gordon Theater
About Rites of Passage
Rites of Passage is about honor, joy and celebration. The Rites of Passage Ceremony was established in 1992 by Juanita Jones-Daly to fill the need to provide a sense of community and belonging for Black and Latinx identified students. The ceremony traditionally features distinguished speakers, live performances, and the incorporation of African culture and traditions—specifically the culminating Rites of Passage medallion bestowing. The ceremony, led by the Division of Diversity, Inclusion and Community Engagement (DICE) and aims to provide our community with a cultural pre-commencement experience that draws on fellowship, community, and celebrates the accomplishments of graduating students. At the Rites of Passage Ceremony, diversity at Rutgers is given an enhanced meaning as it extends notions of a beloved community and allows our students and families to see themselves reflected in the university’s efforts to reward, acknowledge, and celebrate academic achievement.
The Medallion Bestowing
During the ceremony, each graduate will be presented with a Rites of Passage signature medallion. The Rites of Passage ritual in many cultures marks the transition from one phase of life into another. In African culture and tradition, the Rites of Passage ceremony indicates a specific accomplishment in one’s life and is executed to formally celebrate an honored life-cycle transition. During these ceremonies participants are often presented with a gift that signifies the passing of the torch. This “passing of the torch” recognizes the contributions and sacrifices of our ancestors on whose shoulders we continue to stand in pursuit of our goals. Only students who have registered and participate in the entire in-person Rites of Passage Ceremony will be eligible to receive a Rites of Passage medallion.
Friday, May 15
5 – 7 pm
Rutgers University–Camden, Gordon Theater
Graduate Registration
The ceremony centers Black and Latino culture and Rutgers University—Camden Undergraduate and Graduate Students who are expected to earn their degree during the current academic year. All Rutgers University—Camden students who are expected to earn their degree during this current academic year are welcome to participate and support this celebratory event.
Graduates must register: https://givepul.se/xu3p6w
Students must register to participate in the ceremony by April 30th. Students who register will receive an additional email with information on what to expect the day of the ceremony and details about ticketing. In order to be eligible to receive a Rites of Passage Medallion, students must complete the registration process and participate in the entire in-person Rites of Passage Ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Participation is open to all Rutgers University-Camden students that have petitioned for graduation in the Spring or the Summer of the current year. Students must register to participate.
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The Rites of Passage ceremony is an annual pre-commencement ceremony and cultural celebration that acknowledges the persistence of students who have successfully navigated historical systemic post-secondary access and retention barriers.
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Tickets are required for students or their families/support network to attend. Any student wishing to participate in Rites of Passage must register to gain entry to participate in the ceremony. Students who do not register risk not being able to participate.
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The ceremony is open to all Rutgers-Camden students who are expected to earn their degree during this current academic year.
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Students are asked to dress in the color black in semi-formal or business casual clothing.
Volunteer Opportunities
Event Volunteers (Open to faculty/staff/students/ alumni)
All Rutgers University—Camden faculty, staff, students and alumni are welcome to volunteer to assist with the planning/execution process.
Rutgers University Faculty/Staff Processional
We invite Rutgers Faculty/Staff to join us in our faculty/staff opening procession and closing recession at the Annual Rites of Passage Ceremony. Faculty/staff who are interested in participating in the ceremony will be seated on stage and are required to wear their academic regalia.