Rites of Passage: Celebrating Black and Latinx Graduates at Rutgers (2023)

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I produced and edited a video recap of the 2024 Rites of Passage Ceremony, an annual cultural graduation celebration at Rutgers University–New Brunswick honoring Black and Latinx undergraduate and graduate students. Rooted in African traditions and community pride, the event centers on academic achievement, cultural affirmation, and intergenerational support.

Led by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, this pre-commencement ceremony includes powerful speeches, live performances, student awards, and the symbolic presentation of Kente stoles, which honor ancestral legacy and communal perseverance.

In the video, I captured the spirit of the day — including a moving address from a student speaker who reflected on the strength of being surrounded by students of color, and the value of shared experience in higher education. Through vibrant visuals and intentional editing, the recap honors the journey of each student and the families, friends, and cultural heritage that carried them to the finish line.

This piece aimed to amplify Black and Latinx excellence while extending the feeling of community to those watching at home — making the celebration just as impactful on screen as it was in person.