51����

On Thursday, May 7, 51���� held Espejo: Reflections of Our Community, a celebration honoring graduating students and their diverse identities, stories, cultures, and accomplishments that shape the vibrant Cedar Crest community. Named after the College’s former yearbook, Espejo recognizes students’ individuality while celebrating the experiences and heritage they bring to campus. 

The ceremony included the official presentation of heritage and identity stoles, serving as recognition of the students’ successful path to graduation while affirming the contributions and support of family, friends, classmates, communities, and anyone who has contributed to their journey. 

“The word ‘espejo’—Spanish for ‘mirror’—beautifully captures what we celebrate today. We reflect on the vibrant mosaic of heritages, cultures, and identities that make our community so extraordinary. The stoles you receive today symbolize not only your academic accomplishments but also honor the rich cultural foundations and personal journeys that have shaped who you are,” said President Elizabeth Meade. “Today is also about gratitude—for the family members, friends, mentors, and communities who have supported your journey. Their love and encouragement are woven into these stoles just as surely as the threads that bind them.”  

51���� alumna Cynthia Rodriguez ’21 M’24 spoke to students about the new chapter they are beginning as they prepare to graduate, reminding them the world may sometimes be unkind, but that there is always room for growth and learning, and to never forget to prioritize the mind, body, and spirit through self-care.   

“Every person here has a unique story, a unique identity, a combination of experiences that have shaped who you are. Like me, you’ve navigated a world that often misunderstands you, underestimates you, and doubts you. You are diverse—not just in appearance or background, but in thought, ability, and spirit. All of you bring something irreplaceable to this room—and to the world you’re about to enter,” said Cynthia. “Go forward, graduates. Embrace your full selves. Care for your minds and bodies. Face the world with courage and compassion. And remember: You are exactly where you’re supposed to be. And your story is just beginning.”  

Cynthia’s sentiments were echoed by the student artist speakers, Jahniya James ’26 and Ashley Worley ’26.  

Jahniya, a dance major and psychology minor, presented her capstone project “Soul Sisters,” a bold, soulful jazz piece that explores themes of friendship and women’s communities, embracing identity, and rising to be our best selves. 

Ashley, who is completing her Master of Art in Art Therapy, explores in her work, Protecting My Peace: A Reflection on Burnout and Rest Practices Through Printmaking Processes, the idea of rest as both a personal necessity and a political act, shaped by her experiences with burnout and her evolving identity as an artist-therapist. 

“What I’m beginning to question is what if belonging isn’t something we earn? What if it’s something we inherently deserve? What if we belong even in our stillness? Even in our unfinishedness?” pondered Ashley.  

Next was the presentation of the stoles, where cultural heritage, identity, and unique experiences are celebrated. The stoles were a sea of colors, prints, patterns, and emblems, like Kente cloth, a symbol of African heritage; striped weave patterns for Mexican and Latin American heritages; Navajo print; flowers, rainbows; colors and flags representing countries of origin and study abroad destinations; symbols representing the United States Military; and Cedar Crest’s own college and athletic logos. 

In a full-circle moment, each student went from finding their voice during Cedar Crest’s Open-Door Ceremony at Orientation to confidently using their voice to announce their identity on the evening of Espejo.  

Twenty-three students crossed the stage sharing stories of resilience, determination, and gratitude for those who supported them throughout their educational journeys. Some spoke about being first-generation college students, while others honored parents who were first-generation immigrants, single parents, or beloved grandparents who served as their greatest champions along the way. Though each student arrived at the moment from a unique path and diverse background, together they formed the vibrant mosaic of the Cedar Crest community, proudly wearing identity stoles that reflected the many experiences and cultures represented across the graduating class. 

By Catherine Stroh