Celebration of Excellence and Achievement for Students of African Descent

2025 Ceremony

Our 2025 ceremony is scheduled for Friday, May 9, 2025, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.

About the Annual Event

The annual Celebration of Excellence & Achievement for Students of African Descent (COEA) recognizes students who are receiving degrees/certificates and/or transferring to four-year universities.

Who Can Participate

The event is for students of African descent who are graduating with a degree, receiving a certificate, or have been admitted to a four-year university. Students from all four Los Rios colleges are encouraged to participate. If you feel you are eligible but you have not received an invitation to participate, then call or email a member of the event planning committee.

If you were admitted to a four-year university but are not receiving an associate degree, then you must provide a copy of your letter of acceptance.

Register for the Event

Registration for the 2025 celebration begins March 14.

History

The first COEA was held in May of 2006. The ceremony is a cultural and community celebration and includes elements of both African and African American culture. African dancers and drummers, gospel music, and student speakers are just a few of the event's features. Each student participant is presented with a Kente cloth. The ceremony is followed by a reception.