PULLMAN, Wash. – About 240 graduates will be recognized during the annual Washington State University Multicultural Graduation Celebration, 6 p.m. Friday, May 5, in Compton Union Building Senior Ballroom. The event is free and the public is invited to attend.
WSU President Kirk Schulz will provide opening remarks followed by a keynote address by Mary Jo Gonzales, vice president for Student Affairs at WSU.
“This celebration is one of the most uplifting events anyone can participate in,” said J. Manuel Acevedo, director of the Office of Multicultural Student Services. “We encourage everyone to join our graduates and families in celebrating this key moment in their lives.”
Gonzales joined WSU in February and is responsible for the noncurricular aspects of student life at WSU. Student Health & Wellness; student access; equity and achievement; administrative services/auxiliaries; and the dean of students office are among the departments she oversees.
Once a low-income, first generation college student herself, Gonzales has dedicated her life to leading efforts which help individuals achieve their academic, personal and professional goals. In 2015, she was named Outstanding Senior Student Affairs Officer by NASPA’s Latino Knowledge Community.
The celebration will include musical performances and closing remarks by WSU Provost and Executive Vice President Daniel Bernardo.
Media Contacts:
- Manuel Acevedo, director, WSU Multicultural Student Services, 509-335-1071, acevedo@wsu.edu.
- Steve Nakata, Marketing & Communications, Administrative Services, 509-335-1774, nakata@wsu.edu.