On Thursday, May 28, the University High School Black Affinity student organization hosted its 8th annual Black Affinity Graduation Celebration, honoring eighteen graduating seniors from the Class of 2026. Inspired by similar cultural celebrations held at colleges and universities across the country, this event offers a meaningful opportunity for graduates to be recognized and celebrated in community with peers, faculty, family, and friends.
The evening began with a processional set to the University choir’s performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” followed by welcome remarks from Black Affinity faculty advisor Lade Akande. Ms. Akande presented a commemorative gift to parent Cassandra Porter, whose support for and work with Black Affinity through her tenure as a parent has been instrumental in the growth and success of the program. Head of School Alicia LaMagdeleine offered remarks to the graduates.
University alumna and Black Affinity graduate Nia Evans (’15) delivered the keynote address. Each graduating senior was then presented with a traditional Kente stole—which they may choose to wear at Commencement—by Ms. Akande, Assistant Dean of Students Justin Blanding, and CJ Jackson (’27).
As part of the celebration, each senior delivered a short speech, offering thanks to the parents, families, mentors, and supporters who helped them reach this milestone. The reflections were heartfelt and personal, filled with gratitude, laughter, joy, and a few tears as students marked the end of their time at University. The celebration concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Akande and was emceed by Jayda Dawn (’27).
This year, there were eighteen graduating seniors honored — Aspen Arnold, Adriana Barlow, Sidney Brittingham II, Lady Carrington Craig, Sterling Davis, Patrick Dennis, Blake Gray, Isabella Gray, Anya Hicks, Bella Miller Krigger, Faisal Mohamud, Joshua McGee, Kennedy Payne, Lindsey Porter, Gabe Pryor, Maryn Stephenson, Jordan Storey, and Damon “DJ” Willis.
A recording of the event may be accessed here.
Digital-sized photos from the event are available for download free of charge at Jamie Owens’ website. Families may also purchase larger-sized files suitable for printing there as well.