ALHANA graphic

​The ALHANA (African, Latinx, Hispanic, Asian, Native American) program continues to serve as a vibrant, community-centered initiative designed to foster connection, belonging, and shared purpose among students, staff, and faculty at Daemen within these affinity groups. What began in 2017 as a single graduation ceremony—honoring the persistence and achievements of the college’s racially and culturally diverse student community—has grown into something far more dynamic.

Today, under the leadership of the HOPE Center, ALHANA has evolved into a year-round experience, offering intentional programming that builds community, celebrates identity, and affirms the collective strength of its members as they navigate and shape their higher education journeys.

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  • Student standing in front of a teal wall with white painted wings.

  • Person standing at a podium speaking to a crowd.

  • Four students standing around a round table smiling at the camera.

  • Two students holding drinks together and smiling at the camera.

  • A crowd of students posing and smiling at the camera.

  • Two students smiling at the camera and making hearts with their fingers.

  • A group of seven people standing together in front of a stage and smiling at the camera.

ALHANA Achievement Ceremony

The ALHANA (African, Latinx, Hispanic, Asian, Native American) Ceremony symbolizes and commemorates the rite of passage for learners and scholars transitioning from institutions of higher learning to the next chapter of their lives. The ALHANA Achievement Ceremony has a deep history and is an important experience for our students.

Mission Statement

The ALHANA Achievement Ceremony is an event that recognizes, acknowledges, emphasizes, and celebrates the educational achievements of Daemen University graduates. We intend to celebrate the graduates' academic excellence as they begin a bright, hopeful future, while also affirming their role in the future growth of Daemen University.

Purpose/Statement of Celebration

Our purpose is to honor and celebrate the rich cultural legacies that shape our community while creating a space where the Daemen community—and the families and friends who support our students—can come together in shared pride. The ceremony features a keynote speaker who offers both encouragement and a call to purpose for the graduating class. Graduates reflect on their journeys, current students bring the moment to life through meaningful performances, and each participant is presented with an ALHANA stole to wear proudly at commencement.

This celebration is both a reflection and a forward-looking moment—grounded in the intersection of cultural heritage and the promise of what lies ahead. It invites graduates to recognize the paths forged by those who came before them and to see themselves as part of a broader legacy of students from all backgrounds who have shaped the Daemen experience. During the ALHANA Ceremony, we honor not only the individual achievements of our graduates, but also the collective accomplishments and shared journey of the entire graduating class.

Click here to view the 2025 ALHANA Ceremony slideshow!

Check back here for more information and updates about the 2026 ALHANA Ceremony!