How do I wear my academic regalia?

CAP (aka mortar board) & TASSEL
The mortar board is normally worn on the top of the head and not to the back of the head. It should sit flat on the top of the skull.

The tassel attaches to the mortar board at the button. For undergraduate students, the tassel is worn on the right side until instructed to move the tassel during the Commencement ceremony.

The graduate students place the tassel on the left where it remains.

GOWN, HOOD & HONOR REGALIA
Honor regalia is donned over the gown in this order: medallion, honor cords, and then, if worn at the bachelor level, the hood. No other ornamentation (e.g. corsage, necklace) is worn with academic regalia during the ceremony but can be worn before and/or after the ceremony.

The hood goes over the shoulders so the main colors are displayed on the back. The peak of the hood should follow the back and hang down. The hood is often affixed to a button but can be held in place with a safety pin if necessary.

ATTIRE
Clothing worn under the gown should reflect the same solemn and formal nature of the event as does the academic regalia. Traditionally, men should wear dark slacks, shirt, and dress shoes. Ladies wear dark shoes, a dress, or slacks with appropriate top. Dress flats or pump shoes are recommended due to the walking and standing involved during Commencement. During warm weather, the gown can make one warm so consider the weather when choosing attire.

Afterwards - what do we do?

Regardless of events planned and communicated to you, do make sure to find faculty and administration for photos, shaking hands, good luck hugs, and a last word or two. They await eagerly this moment to congratulate on your achievement. 

After this you may go back to the changing areas and leave the rental gowns there.

We are taking pictures before we line up, how does that work?

Students by groups will have their photo taken (Graduate School, School of Professional Studies, and Undergraduates).

After this, students should line up in the designated area. Generally the order of marching is:

• The President and Cabinet
• Board of Regents
• Guest Speaker
• Administrative Officers
• Chairs of the Schools and Academic Departments
• Full-time and part-time faculty
• Adjunct faculty
• Graduate School candidates
• Undergraduate Candidates by Majors
• Associate of Arts Candidates