Official University Regalia

Historically the idea of wearing a graduation gown has been to simplify and unify the participant’s attire. Commencement ceremonies convey the scholarly tradition and formal tone, befitting an academic ceremony. The official University regalia to be worn by all degree candidates consists of the university-approved robe, cap (mortarboard or tam), tassel, and, if appropriate for the degree, a hood. 

Grand Valley is committed to fostering and inclusive and equitable campus community.  As such, there are cultural and organizational practices that we have created to this aim. Requests to wear attire related to cultural expression that is not listed below ought to be submitted at least one month before the Commencement ceremony via email to [email protected].

Cords, Stoles, and Medallions

The cords, stoles, and sashes of different colors worn by some graduates are part of a special Commencement tradition. They represent a variety of things, such as honors distinctions and recognize academic excellence, achievements in leadership, or special affinity recognitions by university programs (i.e.  veterans, international students, athletes, and students of color, as examples). Graduates should contact their respective program or honor society from the list on the Commencement website to obtain cords or stoles. The Commencement website describes the honor societies and their specific adornments. Student organizations should not purchase stoles, cords, or medallions. Individuals or organizations other than those noted above that want to wear additional adornments must request permission via email to [email protected] at least one month prior to the Commencement ceremony.

Cultural Regalia and Adornments

GVSU permits cultural or tribal regalia to be worn underneath the university gown/regalia. 

With requested approval, cultural adornments may be worn over top of the university gown. Students wishing to make this request, may do so via email to [email protected] at least one month prior to the Commencement ceremony. 

Cap Decorating

Graduates may decorate and personalize their mortarboards to celebrate this important occasion. All adornments worn during Commencement must be in keeping with the dignified nature of the ceremony. Adornments should complement this primary focus, not compete with or detract from it. 

All degree candidates participating in Commencement must purchase and wear the official University regalia. Each degree candidate is responsible for the cost of their regalia and the stole, cords, and medallion as needed. We want all of our graduating Lakers to celebrate their accomplishments during Commencement. If a student is experiencing any financial barriers to purchasing regalia that may prevent them from attending the ceremony, they are invited to contact [email protected].

The university-appointed marshals may remove non-approved adornments at the ceremony. Degree candidates choosing not to abide by the regalia guidelines may be asked to leave the assembly area and may not be permitted to participate in the Commencement ceremony. 

 

All adornments worn during Commencement must be in keeping with the dignified nature of the ceremony. Adornments should complement this primary focus, not compete with or detract from it. Non-approved adornments may be removed by the University-appointed marshals at the ceremony. 

We want all of our graduating Lakers to celebrate their accomplishments during Commencement. If you’re experiencing any financial barriers to purchasing regalia that may prevent you from attending the ceremony, please contact [email protected]