Provost Marlin Explains Commencement Couture
In an audio slideshow, Provost Nancy Marlin talks about the meaning behind all those gowns, caps and hoods.
During commencement weekend, thousands of students, faculty and staff members don their academic regalia, including gowns, hoods and hats.
But, what does all that regalia mean?
Provost Nancy Marlin took some time to explain the meaning behind those three important pieces of clothing.
Audio slideshow
Differences of degree
While all participants in commencement wear a gown, there are small, but distinct, differences between each type.
"The robe will differ based on the degree," Marlin said. "Doctoral robes are adorned with velvet down the front and three velvet stripes on the arms. They also have these poofy, bell-type sleeves."
Additionally, hoods are worn by those receiving (or in possession of) graduate degrees and the degree, such as a master's or doctorate, determine how long the hood is. Those with a doctoral degree will have a longer hood.
Historical significance
There's also a historical significance to academic regalia.
"Academic regalia came from medieval times, when universities were first being formed," Marlin said.
"It was basically people who were monks and priests that came out of the clerical orders, so they wore what priests and monks wore: very plain robes and, oftentimes, hoods, just because their heads might have been shaved they had actual functioning hoods. The hoods now, of course, are symbolic and decorative."
