Itanwa Orinwa (Our Story, Our Song) is a celebration dedicated to creating space for community building, connection and recognition of graduating students of color. The celebration is open to all eligible students without regard to race, gender, national origin or other characteristics.
2025 Registration Form
Degree recipients who would like to be honored during the ceremony, as well as faculty and staff who would like to process at the ceremony, are asked to complete the Itanwa Orinwa registration form. Non-degree recipients and all other attendees do not need to register.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Degree recipients who would like to be honored during the ceremony, as well as faculty and staff who would like to process at the ceremony, are asked to complete the Itanwa Orinwa registration form. Non-degree recipients and all other attendees do not need to register.
Registration information will be used to estimate total attendance for planning purposes. There this no limit to the number of guests you can bring. We ask that you confirm an estimated number of guests. You will not need to re-register or update your guest count if plans change.
The date for Itanwa Orinwa is May 9, 2025. Doors open at 5 p.m., and the ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.
The duration of the ceremony is usually two hours. Itanwa Orinwa 2025 is 6:30-8:30 p.m.
No, there will not be a formal reception. However, immediately following the ceremony, in the same location, there will be an opportunity to welcome, recognize and congratulate degree recipients. This will end at 9 p.m.
At this time, the guest count is not limited. All degree recipients who would like to be honored during the ceremony, as well as faculty and staff who would like to process at the ceremony, are asked to complete the Itanwa Orinwa registration form. Registration information will be used to estimate total attendance for planning purposes.
Syracuse University adheres to state and local public health guidelines that could impact the capacity in our on-campus spaces and will notify graduation candidates of any capacity limits prior to the 2025 Commencement weekend activities.
The JMA Wireless Dome follows the clear bag policy, which is still in effect for Commencement weekend. However, some exceptions will be allowed after proper inspection. Please ensure your bag does not exceed 10” x 10”. Strollers and diaper bags will be permitted. Both walk-through and handheld metal detectors will be in place and used at all JMA Dome entry gates for both graduates and guests.
Guests can enter the building via any of the gates at the JMA Wireless Dome.
The entry location for graduates is to be determined (TBD). Check back soon for more information.
No balloons with helium are allowed inside the JMA Wireless Dome.
Please visit the Commencement website for detailed specifics on any accommodations you may need.
Ceremony Photos
Class of 2023
