For 30 years, Spokane’s African American Graduation Celebration has honored Black student achievement while connecting graduates to a rich legacy of community, culture, and perseverance.
Reflecting on the event’s beginnings at Gonzaga University, Dr. Bob Bartlett recalled the first ceremonies held in the former Martin Centre, where community leaders helped establish traditions that continue today. He remembered Denise Osei’s leadership, Francis Osei’s teachings on the significance of libations and Ghanaian culture, and David Osei’s memorable performance of “I Believe I Can Fly.”
Bartlett also paid tribute to many community members who helped build the celebration and whose contributions continue to shape Spokane’s Black community, including Rev. Happy Watkins, Ruth Nichols, Ivan Bush, Richard Williams, V. Anne Smith, Eileen Thomas, and others. Their commitment helped create a tradition that has endured for three decades.
Despite the passage of time, the event has remained true to its original purpose: providing a cultural salute to African American academic achievers and celebrating the support systems that helped them succeed.
“The living and the dead are proud of you,” Bartlett told graduates, emphasizing that their accomplishments reflect not only their own hard work but also the sacrifices and encouragement of family, educators, mentors, and community members.
While speeches may fade from memory, Bartlett noted that the experience itself endures. The celebration serves as a reminder that graduates are part of something larger than themselves, a community that believes in their potential and takes pride in their success.
As families, friends, and supporters gathered to honor this year’s graduates, the message remained clear: this day belongs to the students. Their achievements, their futures, and their possibilities are the reason the celebration continues to thrive after 30 years.
— Taken from the speech of Dr. Bob Bartlett
30th Annual African American Graduation held on May 2nd 2026 at Cataldo Hall on the campus of Gonzaga University.