Celebrate. Support. Show Up.
This June, Centennial College proudly launches its 6th Annual Pride Fundraiser, with events, activities, and initiatives designed to uplift, empower, and support our 2SLGBTQ+ students. Here’s everything you need to know:
Silent Auction – May 26 to June 2
Centennial’s Silent Auction runs from May 26 to June 2 and features our largest and most exciting collection of items in Pride Fundraiser HERSTORY, with options at all price points to make bidding accessible for all. Auction highlights include an authenticated, autographed baseball from Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman, tickets to MJ: The Musical and RuPaul’s Werk the World Tour, Cirque du Soleil tickets, and stunning clothing, jewelry, and art from local Queer and Indigenous artists. Bids can be placed online or in person at the CCSAI Student Centre during the June 2 Pride Celebration.
CCSAI Matching All Donations – Up to $20,000
For the first time ever, the Centennial College Student Association Inc. (CCSAI) will match all Pride Month donations—including auction bids, tip contributions, and direct gifts—up to $20,000. This unprecedented show of support is the largest match in the event’s history, helping to double the impact for students who need it most.
100% of Tips at The Local Go to the Pride Bursary – May 26 to June 30
Beginning May 26, student servers at The Local Restaurant will be donating 100% of their tips to the Pride Bursary through the end of June. This show of solidarity turns every meal into an opportunity to uplift students facing housing insecurity, family estrangement, or financial hardship. And with all donations matched by CCSAI, your tip goes twice as far to provide life-changing financial assistance where it's needed most.
Over $181,000 Raised Since 2020 – Supporting 360+ Students
Since 2020, Centennial’s Pride Fundraiser has raised more than $181,000, providing direct financial support to over 360 2SLGBTQ+ students. The Pride Bursary helps students navigate urgent challenges with dignity and stability—keeping them in school, connected, and supported.
Pride Fundraiser Event – June 2 from 12–2 PM
Join us for the heart of Pride Month at Centennial—the 6th Annual Pride Fundraiser, happening on Monday, June 2 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM at the CCSAI Student Centre (Progress Campus). This vibrant in-person event features something for everyone: the final hours of our Silent Auction, an inspiring roster of community partner booths, an opening address from President Craig Stephenson, and a closing speech from Vice President Lynn Ardizzi. Attendees will also experience our Conversations for Social Change student panel—where Centennial students share their powerful stories—and enjoy live drag performances by returning alumna Dahlia Doll and rising performer Star. It’s a celebration of resilience, joy, and support for 2SLGBTQ+ students. Don’t miss it!
Community Partners – Stronger Together
This year’s Pride Fundraiser includes more community partners than ever before in our Community Partners Lounge—an inspiring demonstration of collective support and resource-sharing for our 2SLGBTQ+ students. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet and engage with organizations offering vital services in health, housing, advocacy, and youth empowerment. Confirmed partners include: 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations, ACT Toronto, The ArQuives, ASAAP, Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention, Black Queer Youth Collective, Casey House, Coca-Cola, Egale, Family Services Toronto, Fife House, Friends of Ruby, Modo Yoga Scarborough, PFlag, Pieces to Pathways, and Sherbourne Health/SOY – Supporting Our Youth.
Live Drag Performances: Dahlia Doll & Star
Get ready for a show-stopping performance June 2nd! Dahlia Doll, Centennial alumna and beloved local drag artist originally from Mexico, returns to the stage alongside Star, a rising Filipina-Scottish Toronto-based drag performer. Together, they bring cultural pride, artistry, and fierce energy to the Pride Fundraiser Celebration.
Pride Email Signature Template – Now Featuring Trans Flag Colours
Show your support this Pride Month by adding Centennial’s updated Pride logo—now featuring the trans flag colours—to your email signature. This intentional design change highlights our solidarity with trans and non-binary community members, who continue to face growing political and social challenges. Using the logo in your signature is a simple but powerful way to promote inclusion and visibility.
Centennial Comes Out Campaign – New Stories Now Live
Just in time for Pride Month, the latest edition of the 'Centennial Comes Out' campaign is now live—featuring powerful new additions that spotlight the journeys, voices, and identities of our 2SLGBTQ+ community. This year’s expanded series includes personal coming out stories from the entire cast of our Conversations for Social Change student panel, offering honest reflections on courage, growth, and self-discovery. These stories celebrate what it means to live authentically and provide meaningful visibility to students who are still navigating their own paths. You can explore the campaign throughout June across campus digital screens, social media, and Centennial’s website.
Toronto Pride Parade – Registration Opens June 2
Starting at the Pride Fundraiser on June 2, you can register to march with Centennial in the Toronto Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29. Join fellow students, staff, and faculty as we walk alongside our Centennial float in one of the city’s most joyful, affirming, and high-energy celebrations of 2SLGBTQ+ pride and visibility. All are welcome—come be part of the movement!