28th Annual Chicano/Latino Graduation 2008 Information
2008 Graduation Registration is now open
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the 28th Annual Chicano/Latino Graduation?
The 28th Annual Chicano/Latino Graduation Celebration is a beautiful event that takes place the night before University Commencement. The purpose of the ceremony is to celebrate students' personal success and academic achievements in the spirit and traditions of our culture. The celebration is dedicated to our families and is bilingual. The ceremony is open to all graduating students and allows graduates the opportunity to publicly thank those who have helped them throughout their educational careers. Each graduate will have 20 seconds of time on the microphone to address the audience.
- When is the 28th Annual Chicano/Latino Graduation?
This year it will be held on Thursday, May 15th, 2008 from 8:00 – 10:00 PM in the Howard Jones Football Practice Field. The ceremony will be approximately 2 hours long.
- Who can participate?
Any USC student (undergraduate or graduate/doctoral candidate) completing a degree in Spring, Summer, or Fall 2008.
- I am NOT Chicana/o, may I still participate?
Absolutely. This ceremony is open to all USC students, but does have a cultural atmosphere. We recognize that not every one of Latin American descent identifies as Chicana/o. However, the first students who organized the event did, and out of appreciation for history and those who came before us, we keep the term in the title of the event.
- What does it cost?
There are no fees to participate. All you need to do is register.
- How do I register?
We ask that you register by 5:00 pm Friday, March 28th 2008 at the El Centro Chicano website. By registering by the priority deadline, you will be guaranteed that your name and picture are in the Commemorative Book and in the program.
- What is the Commemorative Book?
Similar to a yearbook, the Commemorative Program serves as a directory for graduates with photos and messages. Each graduate who registers by the priority deadline of Friday, March 28th 2008 will be guaranteed a book. In addition to an individual picture, graduates can purchase additional dedication space. Commemorative Programs will also be sold at the ceremony for those who will not be receiving a free one, or for family members and friends who would like a copy. For more information on how to purchase additional space in the commemorative book or to buy additional books, please contact El Centro Chicano at (213) 740-1480.
- Does EVERY graduate get time on the microphone?
Yes. Each participant will have 20 seconds of time on the microphone to address the audience/their guests. Graduates usually take this time to thank loved ones. The 20-second time limit will be enforced! We ask that graduates be respectful of their time as it affects other graduates and the audience. We suggest writing your message on an index card in preparation for the night.
- Do I have to use my time on the microphone?
No. If you don't want to speak, you don't have to.
- How many guests may I invite?
You may invite as many guests as you like. After you have registered, El Centro Chicano will email you pre-formatted inserts to include with your graduation announcements. They will be available in English and Spanish. Seating is on first come, first serve basis, so please advise your guests to arrive early to secure seating.
- What do I wear?
Please wear your academic regalia (cap & gown).
- Where can my guests park?
Parking is available on campus for $7. The closest structures to Howard Jones Football Practice Field are Parking Structure A (PSA) and Parking Structure B (PSB).
- If guests need special accommodations, who should I contact?
If you or your guests need special accommodations (wheelchair access, etc.), please inform El Centro Chicano staff about your needs at the time of registration.
- What is the Class Speaker?
One graduate will address the class and audience with a 3-5 minute speech. Graduates wishing to speak must submit an application by 5:00pm on Friday March 21st, 2008. Finalists will audition for the graduation committee which will include students, staff and faculty. Only one speaker will be selected. Applications are available at El Centro Chicano (UUC 300) or you can request one at ecc@usc.edu .
- Who are the Master and Mistress of Ceremonies?
Two graduates will serve as MC for the evening. All graduates are eligible to apply. Graduates wishing to apply must submit an application by 5:00pm on Friday March 21st, 2008. Finalists will be asked to audition. Applications are available at El Centro Chicano (UUC 300) or you can request one at ecc@usc.edu .
- Who plans the celebration?
The celebration is funded by El Centro and the Latina/o Student Assembly. It is planned by a committee that meets weekly and is open to any student, staff or faculty. This semester, committee meetings are held on Wednesdays from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.
- Where do we meet the day of the graduation celebration?
Check-in and line up will begin at 6:45pm in front of the United University Church (UUC/El Centro). All graduates must arrive and be checked in by 7:30pm. Please direct your guests to Howard Jones Field. The procession will begin at 7:45pm sharp. If you would like to walk/sit with your friends, you must be on time!
For more information, please contact
El Centro Chicano at (213) 740-1480 or at ecc@usc.edu
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