Lavender Ball 2025: Masquerade, Meaning and Maintaining a Movement

Jose Lino Reyes '27 drag performance. Photo by Liam Gillin ‘20

What does it mean to feel fully seen? 

For many LGBTQ+ students at Marist University, that answer came wrapped in sequins and sound at this year’s Lavender Ball. Hosted by Marist Fox Pride, this year’s Lavender Ball marked a noticeable shift—not only in vibe but in purpose. 

Held in the entirety of the Murray Center River Rooms with the theme “Moonlit Masquerade,” the night featured student drag performances, artfully curated spaces and a vibe that leaned into celebration far from the average high school prom. But was it just aesthetics or something more meaningful?

“I think this one was a lot more social,” said Quinn Bender ‘27, a Fox Pride board member. He continued, explaining, “There was definitely a lot more buzz around it because last year was so successful. People were lining up while we were still setting up.” 

An evident factor of this excitement was the financial success that Fox Pride received, translating into a 38% increase in fundraising from last year. This is, without a doubt, a tangible sign that the event is gaining traction both as a campus tradition and a community force.

One of the most striking changes was the venue itself. After hosting last year’s Ball in the Cabaret, organizers this year opted for the River Rooms. The result was a dramatic shift in tone. 

“The Cab last year encouraged more of a dance atmosphere, very prom-like,” Bender explained. “This one was more like, ‘Oh, this is a ball. This is a fundraiser.’ Sit down, eat, talk to your friends, dress up, have fun with it.”

That shift in tone was intentional. With the help of volunteers and a confident executive board, the setup ran smoothly and efficiently. 

“We were prepped and ready to go like three, four hours ahead of schedule,” said Bender. “This year, we opened up the setup to volunteers, and that helped create more community buy-in. That’s something we’re definitely keeping.”

Beyond the décor and structure, what truly set this year apart was the introduction of live performances—including drag. From strong vocals to refined instrumentals, Marist students entertained attendees across the entirety of the event.

As a grand finale, Jose Lino Reyes ‘27 took to the stage strikingly, flaunting an unforgettable look. In a long black wig, fashionable makeup and a custom-tailored outfit of his own creation, Lino Reyes innovatively danced and lip-synced, entrancing his audience.

“It felt amazing to be one of the first experiences some people may have to drag,” said Lino Reyes after his performance. “It’s so special to have a place where people and pride are indifferent and everyone can enjoy time together celebrating Queer art and love.”

Lino Reyes’s performance wasn’t just entertainment—it was a message. “Marist Pride stands for the strength it takes to be queer, open, and respectful. My art is a craft I look to share so people can be and do as they please without fear.”

Among the crowd this year was special guest and Marist alum Liam Gillin ‘20 and one of the original organizers of the very first Lavender Ball. Liam had returned to campus for the event, drawn by the promise of seeing how far the celebration had come while simultaneously sharing his photography skills to shoot the event.

As someone who oversaw the progression of the Lavender Ball from the very start, Gillin felt that this was a natural evolution. 

“It’s just amazing to see that it’s still continuing. I think people thought it was going to be a one-off thing,” Gillin explained. “But to see student performers? That was incredible. So many talents being showcased!”

Gillin, who launched the event in response to the lack of safe spaces on campus for LGBTQ+ students, described the original Ball as a catalyst. “After the first one, the school just changed. People felt more confident. You saw more LGBTQ couples holding hands on campus. It just skyrocketed confidence—not just for queer students, but for straight students too.”

And the evolution isn’t over. While this year emphasized intimacy and craft, next year’s event might shift once again.

“It wasn’t just a party. It was a way to rebuild the community after COVID, after everything you all have been through,” said Gillin. “These students care. That was clear.”