As the school year winds down, students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) all across the nation continue to celebrate the biggest moment  of their collegiate careers: graduation. Last year, many graduations were held virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic. Although it was a bittersweet moment for those graduates last year, many HBCUs have turned dreams into reality by hosting in-person graduation ceremonies. More than 80% of HBCUs will host in-person ceremonies this year. Florida A&M University kicked off its graduations April 23-25, following strict protocols to ensure safety for all graduates, staff and families. Graduations aren’t at full capacity just yet, but students and staff are thankful for the opportunity and believe this year serves as a testimony for many. “It's been a challenge to stay healthy, but you have risen,” said FAMU president Larry Robinson. “During this last year, you have progressed through unprecedented times and I thank you for joining us on this fight to help protect the family. You have demonstrated what can be accomplished by simply pushing forward and never giving up.” On Saturday, Clark Atlanta University will host two in-person ceremonies. The first ceremony will begin at 8 a.m. ET to commemorate 2020 graduates, with voting rights activist Stacey Abrams serving as the commencement speaker, and attorney and political commentator Bakari Sellers at 3 p.m. for the 2021 graduates. Actor Anthony Anderson will serve as the commencement speaker for Virginia Union University. As HBCU graduations continue throughout the next few weeks, students will continue to celebrate their perseverance over the last four years. – Marissa Stubbs