Each year Fresno Pacific University graduates are invited to celebrate diversity and express pride in their country of origin by wearing an ethnic sash.

Ethnic sashes are an ornamental strip of fabric worn about the shoulders and are decorated in a variety of ways to represent different cultural and/or ethnic themes. Along with the wearing of ethnic sashes, graduates are encouraged to participate in the Night of Cultural Celebration which is held the evening before graduation. During this ceremony, students and their guests will enjoy a variety of music and will hear from a community speaker. The highlight of the evening is the prayers offered in languages from each country of origin represented by the graduates.

Coordination and purchasing of ethnic stoles is through the Office of Spiritual Formation. Please contact Dina Gonzales-Pina at 559-453-2231 or at dgonzale@fresno.edu for more information.