Hallie Chastain
Reporter
Students at Mississippi University for Women are somewhat divided about the policies regarding regalia at graduation.
Some students feel that the ceremony celebrates academic achievement and don’t mind the strict policies. Others think that they should be able to choose how they express themselves during the ceremony because it is their achievement.
For the past several years graduations have either been non-traditional because of the impact of the pandemic on in-person events. Now that things have returned to a mostly normal schedule, The W’s students, staff and faculty are ready for their traditions to also return to normal.
“This will be the most traditional graduation since the pandemic started. It should be a lot more like what have been accustomed to historically, and we are excited to celebrate our graduates,” said Scott Tollison, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs.
Graduating from college is a big step. It takes a lot of time management, people skills and determination. However, some students feel that the experience of receiving their diploma should encapsulate their time at The W.
“The point of the cap and gown is that everyone is equal. Why can’t we stand out just a little bit with a stole or with cords or a decorated hat,” said Maggie Ellis, a senior History major at The W. “We are all in it together, we’re obviously here, and we are all graduating, but what is wrong with a little bit of individuality in it?”
The policies are set in place to prioritize the occasion of the event and celebrate the graduates’ academic achievements. However, graduates are encouraged to take pictures on campus with their organizations. In addition, graduates are invited to take photos wearing their honor society, sorority, fraternity and social club stoles and cords.
Still, some students feel as if they are missing out on an experience that many other graduates get to have.
“I hate it a lot. I feel like the pop culture thing you always see is people with their painted mortar boards right, their hats are always done up with something about either their major or an inside joke with their friends. I hate that we don’t get to do that,” said Ellis.
Tollison said that sometimes students even have decorations set aside for their caps to use after the ceremony has concluded.
“Because It is an official academic ceremony, students are limited to wearing the official academic regalia and limited to also wearing masters hood and honors cords — what we traditionally call Latin cords because those are official academic recognition that is basically the attire,” said Tollison.
Other students feel that the regalia is not as important as some other issues at graduation. Support from family, friends and loved ones is encouraged by graduates as the final push to graduate is near. Often the atmosphere of the auditorium during the ceremony does not match the celebratory experience that some feel a commencement should be. Luis Leal, a senior Marketing major and Student Government Association President, said his wish for graduations going forward is not concerning regalia, but the atmosphere created by the seriousness of graduation.
“I would much rather be able to hear parents cheering. I think that’s wonderful. I mean, your child just graduated. They should be able to cheer,” said Leal.
There are many important aspects of graduation. It is a time full of uncertainty, excitement and relief. For some, it is just the beginning. Many students plan to attend graduate school, while others are eager to join the workforce. However, one feeling many seniors share is gratitude to the college they will soon call their Alma Mater.
“The W’s been good to me, and hopefully it’ll be to the next generation. I’m glad people come here. I’m glad these instructors and faculty and everyone makes a difference,” said Leal. “Even the students, they make a difference. You can see the students that really go out there and make sure everyone feels comfortable and included.”
Graduation for The W’s Spring Class of 2022 will be on May 6 and 7. The ceremony will take place at Rent Auditorium in Whitfield Hall on The W’s campus. Tickets will be required to enter the event, even for children and infants. Graduating students will be granted four tickets each to give to those they want to attend the event. Masks will not be required, but The W encourages the precaution.