May 19, 2013–Fittingly occurring on the 80^th birthday of Malcolm X, this year’s Black Graduation welcomed over 100 students and 400 of their family members to celebrate the culture and accomplishments of the undergraduate graduating Class of 2013.

Professor Carl Hart, Columbia’s first tenured African American professor in the sciences, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the distinction of the collective bond of those who survived the Columbia experience as students of color. Dr. Hart also advised the graduates to “be vain,” in tending to their bodies and appearance, and noted the importance of cultivating the support of family.

Sunday’s ceremony included several moving moments of emotion, particularly during Family Appreciation, a segment where students and their family members articulated gratitude and expressed pride.

As the graduates walked across the stage Columbia Alumni Association Chair George Van Amson CC ’74 and Double Discovery Center Executive Director and BAC VP, Kevin Matthews CC ’80 adorned them with stoles. The gifts were provided by the generous contributions of BAC members.

The Black Alumni Council congratulates the Class of 2013.

On Wednesday, March 6, five accomplished alumni will be presented with 2013 John Jay Awards for distinguished professional achievement at the annual John Jay Awards Dinner at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.

Proceeds from the dinner benefit the John Jay National Scholars Program, which aims to enhance academic and extracurricular experiences for outstanding first-year College students.

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