Spectrum proudly honored its LGBTQ+ graduates at the Spring 2025 Lavender Celebration, a heartfelt and inclusive ceremony recognizing the achievements, authenticity and resilience of students within the LGBTQ+ community.
The celebration opened with warm words from Dr. Jeannie Chapman, dean of the College of Science and Technology. In her welcome address, Chapman celebrated not only the academic accomplishments of graduates but also their personal journeys and identities.
“This ceremony is not just a celebration of academic success,” Chapman said. “It’s also a celebration of your identity, your authenticity and your pride in your true self. You are part of a vibrant and supportive community that believes in your potential.”
The Lavender Celebration is a longstanding tradition at many universities, designed to honor LGBTQ+ students and acknowledge their unique experiences in higher education. The event, sponsored by the LGBT Fund of Spartanburg, also reflected on the growing institutional support for LGBTQ+ initiatives at USC Upstate.
Reflections during the ceremony highlighted notable milestones, such as USC Upstate’s first-time participation in Upstate Pride, with a booth sponsored by the USC Upstate Foundation. The presence made a powerful impression, as the university was the only one represented in that capacity. Faculty, staff, students and alumni volunteered at the event, showcasing the university’s commitment to inclusivity.
“One of the most impactful moments this year was our visibility at Upstate Pride,” said Buck Cooke, associate director of student involvement for community and student engagement at USC Upstate. “People who visited our booth shared how meaningful it was to see Upstate represented. It was a reminder that representation matters — and that support exists here.”
The ceremony also included a special moment of appreciation for the LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, whose work over the past year helped guide and support initiatives on campus. Their dedication to advocacy and inclusion was met with heartfelt applause.
Alumnus Tony Tanner, a 2022 graduate and executive director of NAMI Spartanburg, introduced keynote speaker Wynston Cornelius Sanders. Tanner, who serves in multiple advocacy roles across the state, praised Sanders for his unwavering commitment to community, authenticity and leadership.
“Wynston is the kind of person who lifts people up just by being himself,” said Tanner. “His presence is powerful, and his work in the community continues to inspire.”
“I had some ups and downs in my journey of trying to get to the degree that I wanted. But when I received that degree in hand, I was ecstatic for my future,” said Sanders. “You may also have had ups and downs during your time here, but guess what? You made it through the all-nighters, overpriced textbooks, cafeteria pizza and survived group projects. While you were chasing that degree, you were chasing something even bigger… yourself.”
The celebration went on to recognize four individuals with a certificate and a lavender graduation cord, which they will proudly wear at their May 8 commencement.
As the ceremony concluded, the message from Dr. Khrystal Smith, associate vice chancellor for student engagement and retention initiatives, reminded these students to savor each moment as they come. “Don’t let tonight’s celebration or that walk across the stage pass without savoring the moment. As you look forward to your next chapter, know that we are grateful that you chose to share this chapter of your story.”
Each USC Upstate student is part of a thriving, affirming community — no matter their background — and we need their voices and leadership now more than ever.
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For more information on LGBTQ+ support services in the region, visit Upstate Pride SC.