Our Programs
The Office of Student Inclusion and Belonging is rooted in Trinity’s value of Intentional Inclusion. SIB engages across campus with student groups, academic departments, offices and local San Antonio area organizations to create opportunities for students to participate in community-centered programs and initiatives. We aim to cultivate an environment where our community members feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential. Our programs and initiatives are guided by our principles: Educate, Engage, and Empower
All students, regardless of identity or background, are welcome to participate in SIB events and programs.
First-Gen Tigers Program
The First-Gen Tigers Program celebrates and uplifts the identities, experiences, and strengths of our first-generation community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni. We foster belonging and holistic student success through tailored programming, mentorship, and resources. By providing comprehensive academic, personal, and professional support, we empower first-generation students to persist, thrive, and achieve lasting success during college and beyond.
Cultural Observances
The Student Inclusion and Belonging (SIB) Office collaborates with various campus partners, student groups, and city-area organizations to offer programming that highlights annual cultural observance months (e.g., Latinx Heritage Month, Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Indigenous Heritage Month, LGBTQ+ History Month, etc.). Below are some key annual programs that we host and encourage our campus community to engage in.
Latinx Heritage Month
Annually, Trinity University honors Latinx Heritage Month through programming hosted throughout the month, Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. SIB and Mexico, the Americas, and Spain (MAS) host the annual El Mercado Celebration to kickoff Latinx Heritage Month with music, entertainment, and various local vendors with art, crafts, and community resources.
Martin Luther King Jr. Week
Trinity University annually honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through two traditions. Community members—students, faculty, staff, and alumni—join San Antonio's MLK March, recognized as the largest in the country. Additionally, Trinity partners with the San Antonio Martin Luther King Jr. Commission to host an annual Commemorative Lecture featuring speakers who honor Dr. King's legacy through their commitment to racial and social justice.
Inclusive Celebrations
SIB annually hosts Inclusive Celebrations for graduating students to gather in celebrations that honor their cultures and identities.
Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Celebration
The AAPI Celebration at Trinity University honors graduating students who identify as Asian, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Desi American. This ceremony celebrates their resilience, accomplishments, and cultural heritage as they transition to their next chapter. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office with AAPI student organizations, graduates reflect on their journey and celebrate with community. Each student selects someone meaningful to present them with a stole.
De Colores Celebration
The De Colores Celebration, named for the Spanish term for “in colors,” is a unique Latina/o event of Trinity’s graduates. Each graduating student can invite their family, friends, and countless members of the Trinity community who have helped them along the way. Each student chooses a loved one to present them with a colorful stole. The De Colores Celebration is hosted by MAS and TULA student organization.
First-Gen Celebration
The First-Generation Celebration at Trinity University honors students who are the first in their families to graduate from college. This event celebrates their achievements alongside family, friends, and the Trinity community who supported them throughout their journey. Each student selects someone meaningful to present them with a stole. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office, the celebration highlights the resilience, dedication, and contributions of first-generation students.
Kente Celebration
The Kente Celebration at Trinity University honors Black and African American graduating students alongside family, friends, and supporters. Rooted in HBCU traditions, this ceremony recognizes their resilience, accomplishments, and cultural heritage. Each student selects someone meaningful to present them with a stole. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office, Black Student Union, and African Student Association, graduates reflect on their journey and embrace their future.
Lavender Celebration
Trinity University's Lavender Celebration honors graduating LGBTQ+ students for their achievements and contributions, celebrating alongside chosen families and support networks. Students receive lavender stoles—a color symbolically significant to the LGBTQ+ community—to wear at commencement. Each student selects someone meaningful to present them with a stole. Hosted by the Student Inclusion and Belonging Office and PRIDE student organization.
Transitions Programming
To stay up to date with our inclusive programming, follow us @tuinclusion. For up to date information regarding Orientation & Transitions programming, follow us @tu_orientation.
Major Declaration Day
Annually, we host Major Declaration Day where Sophomore students can signify their major declaration by receiving a pennant customized to their major as a souvenir. Students can meet their department faculty and connect with peers in those majors. Students will have the opportunity to take a variety of photos alongside their friends and academic and faculty advisors. This is a moment to celebrate the beginning of your academic journey at Trinity.
Senior Year Experience
The Senior Year Experience Committee (SYE) is represented by Alumni Relations and Development, the Center for Experiential Learning and Career Success, Residential Life, and the Student Inclusion and Belonging Department to celebrate the graduating class and prepare them for their transition to post-graduate life.