The Woodland Joint Unified School District African-American Parent Advisory Council (AAPAC) proudly hosted its first-ever African-American Senior Celebration on Saturday, May 3, honoring graduating African-American students with a special event held at our District Office.

According to a press release, the AAPAC, along with District staff and community partners, organized the event to recognize the culmination of students’ accomplishments as they prepare to graduate. The celebration was a powerful and joyful occasion that highlighted student success, culture, and pride as our community came together to celebrate them.

“The African-American Senior Celebration is a heartfelt tribute to our students’ hard work, perseverance, and identity,” said Veronica Tafoya, chair of the AAPAC. “This event was created to honor students and their families, and to ensure our seniors feel seen, valued, and celebrated as they reach this important milestone. It’s about affirming their place and potential within our schools and community.”

Tafoya gave opening remarks, and the event was emceed by AAPAC member Ruth deLemos, with an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Mariama Smith Gray.

WJUSD Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin delivered special remarks.

“This celebration marks a significant milestone in our District’s commitment to recognizing and uplifting every student’s unique journey,” said Ortega-Lampkin. “Honoring our African-American seniors not only celebrates their academic achievements but also acknowledges their resilience, culture, and contributions to our community. We are incredibly proud of these young leaders and look forward to supporting their continued success beyond graduation.”

A highlight of the event was the Sash Ceremony, where each senior was presented with a celebratory sash by Trustee Kandice Richardson Fowler alongside community elders, symbolizing honor and achievement.

After the ceremony, students also shared their reflections on the event.

“Today meant community,” said Lanaya James, a senior at Woodland High School. “It felt good to see people come together, especially people who look like me. I felt seen, heard. I feel like I belong here.”

“Personally, today meant being seen by my community and being appreciated for what I’ve done,” said Linaya James, also a senior at Woodland High School. “I felt really good about today because I feel seen.”

“I believe it was very welcoming, and it was very homey to me,” said Alexandria Williams, a senior at Woodland High School. “This is a big event that needs to happen, especially for African-American students. Today was very eye-opening to see the different African-American students from different schools come together. And although this was the first event, it was very beautiful and well put together. I can’t wait for it to evolve over the years.”

To close out the ceremony, AAPAC member Reshanya Keough thanked parents, guardians, and loved ones for their constant support of students.

“Thank you for pouring yourself into them to encourage and motivate them, even in times you didn’t feel encouraged or motivated,” said Keough, adding inspiring words for students in attendance. “Lastly, to our graduates, wherever your path may lead you from here, do what you do with intention, tenacity, boldness, integrity, and humility, all while being unapologetically you.”