The Black Congratulatory Celebration is an annual event held to honor Black graduates on the Illinois campus. The BNAACC recognizes students who are graduating from the U of I with a bachelor, masters, Ph.D. or professional degree in a ceremony reflecting various traditions in the African diaspora.
2024 Black Congratulatory Ceremony
- Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024
- Location: The Activities Recreation Center (ARC)
- 201 E Peabody Dr, Champaign, IL 61820
- Time: 7:00-9:00 pm CST (Doors open at 6:00 pm CST)
- Cost: $85.00 – Fee includes a kente cloth stole, class gift, class picture, program booklet, and more!
For questions, please email blackcongratulatoryuiuc@gmail.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in Black Congratulations?
We recognize Illinois students receiving their Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral or Professional degrees between May 2024 and December 2024.
How can I register?
Please follow this link! https://go.illinois.edu/BlackCongrats24
Does it cost to participate?
Yes. The fee is $85.00. This fee is paid electronically through the registration form. No other forms of payment will be accepted.
What is included in the $85.00 fee?
The $75.00 fee covers the following:
- Kente Cloth Stole
- Black Grad Week Activities
- Class Gift
- Class Picture
- Program Booklet
- And More!
Can I just pay for the stole?
Unfortunately, no - the fee is all or nothing. We do not provide an “A La Carte” option.
Will the ceremony be live streamed?
Yes! Information will be shared in the Spring of 2024!
Do I need tickets and is there a limit to the number of family/friends I can invite?
Tickets are NOT required and there is no limit to the number of guests per graduating student. Seating is first come, first serve.
Is my cap and gown included in the fee? If not, then where can I get my regalia?
Your cap & gown are NOT included in the Black Congratulatory fee. Learn how to order your commencement regalia. Your cap and gown are ordered through Herff Jones Cap & Gown Company and requires an additional payment.
When is the Black Congratulatory Photo?
We will take the class photo on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the Krannert Center For Performing Arts (KCPA); 500 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana, IL 61801.
When is Black Grad Week? And what are the activities?
Save the dates: April 21st - April 27th, 2024!
The specific activities are forthcoming!
Please check your email regularly and follow BNAACC on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Have additional questions? Please contact us at blackcongratulatoryuiuc@gmail.com.