About the Ceremony

The Rites of Passage Ceremony serves to honor and celebrate students who identify as Black/African American that have successfully completed an Associate Degree, Certification or will be transferring to a Four-Year University.  This event both recognizes students’ accomplishments and the community that supported them, while also marking the transition from their time at Monterey Peninsula College to their future studies or professional endeavors. Come celebrate in this ceremonial pre-commencement event that embraces African culture, customs, and traditions. You can expect to hear words of wisdom from notable speakers, student awards and recognition, and musical selections, culminating with the presentation of Kente Stoles, followed by a reception for graduates and guests.  This ceremony is free for students, guests and the community.

Registration

Participation is open to Monterey Peninsula College students that have successfully completed an Associate Degree, Certification, or will be transferring to a four-year college or university in Summer 2022, Fall 2023, Spring 2024, and Summer 2024.  To participate in this ceremony and guarantee receipt of a Kente stole, students must register online.

Click Here to Register

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Schedule of Events

Rites of Passage Ceremony Celebration

Date: Thursday, May 16, 2024
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Location: MPC Theatre

Reception (immediately following)

2024 Rites of Passage Keynote Speaker:Announcement Pending

Kente Stole Presentation Significance
The Kente—a hand-woven, ceremonial cloth originating in Ghana—is rich with symbolism of and, through its collection of patterns, visually represents several African principles. Through the Kente Stole Presentation, we acknowledge the significance of contributions from ancestral sacrifices to the encouragement and support from each student’s “village” (family, friends, and loved ones) as they pursue their goals.

Participation Opportunities
There are several opportunities for the community (current students, staff, faculty, and alumni) to participate in the 29th Annual Rites of Passage Ceremony.  The Imani group—which is the African American Faculty and Staff at Monterey Peninsula College—invites you to lend your talents as a speaker/performer or volunteer to staff this wonderful event for our graduates.

• Event volunteers (open to student, staff/faculty & alumni)
• MPC Faculty and Staff Processional & Stole Presentation  

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can attend the Rites of Passage Ceremony?
Participation is open to Monterey Peninsula College students that have successfully completed an Associate Degree, Certification, or will be transferring to a four-year college or university in the current year.

There is no restriction on the number of friends and family members you can invite; however, we do ask that when registering, participants indicate the number of guests they will be bringing so we can ensure there is enough food for the reception. Guests do not need tickets to attend.

When and where will the Rites of Passage Ceremony be held?
The ceremony will last approximately one hour. Reception to follow. The location of the ceremony will be at the MPC Theatre, on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 6:00pm.

What is the dress code for graduates?
Along with the standard graduation gown that you have ordered from Bookstore, we suggest comfortable shoes for walking. You should arrive at the ceremony dressed in your gown.

What can/can’t I bring to the Rites of Passage Ceremony?
Please leave any valuables with family or guests. There will be no designated area at the ceremony where you may leave your valuables.  If you choose to carry your cell phone or camera with you, please be advised that Monterey Peninsula College is not responsible for the loss or damage to these or any other valuables.  

As a courtesy to your fellow graduates, please have your cell phone or any other electronic devices set to vibrate.

Where can I park for the Rites of Passage Ceremony?
You and your guests may park in any parking lot designated for students. There will be signs directing graduates and guests to designated parking areas. Individuals with disabilities should park in any adjacent accessible parking spaces.

How do I coordinate accommodations for a physical disability?
Degree candidates or guests needing disability accommodations should contact RitesofPassage@mpc.edu prior to the deadline.

Please notify RitesofPassage@mpc.edu by Monday, May 13th for any potential disability-related needs including but not limited to:

• ANY graduating student who uses a mobility device (wheelchair, scooter, walker, crutches, cane, etc.) along with ANY graduating student who may have difficulty walking long distances or walking up stairs.

• ANY graduating student who plans to bring a service animal (or service animal in training) to the ceremony.

• ANY graduating student who needs communication access accommodations (access to sign language interpreter.)

• ANY graduating student who needs specific seating due to a disability-related need (anxiety, health concerns, etc.)

How can I contact the Rites of Passage organizers with miscellaneous questions or concerns?
Contact RitesofPassage@mpc.edu.