Graduates' Dress and Adornment

DRESS: Graduates are reminded that Baccalaureate and Commencement are joyous but dignified occasions during which family members and friends manifest justifiable pride in their graduates. They preserve the occasion through video recordings and still photographs that become part of family histories. Graduates are expected to dress appropriately. While cool clothing and low-heeled, comfortable shoes are advisable, informal clothing and footwear (e.g., shorts, athletic shoes, rubber sandals) are not consistent with the spirit of graduation ceremonies.

CAP AND GOWN: The University's policy is that no "props" may be carried and that no unapproved adornment is worn on the graduating senior's cap or gown. Adornments must be approved by University Marshal Julie Woodzicka.

University-sponsored or recognized student organizations may apply to the University Marshal for permission to wear adornments such as pins, cords, or stoles at the Commencement exercises. Adornments may not contain words or phrases, unless they are the name of the organization or the year of graduation (e.g., Class of 2024). Letters are permitted only if they are representing the name / acronym of social or academic organizations currently recognized by the University. Images (coat of arms, photos, organization logos, etc.) are not permitted. Petitions for approval should be directed to the University Marshal prior to March 1.  A list of adornments that have been approved, can be found using the adornments link.

Please click on this link to seek approval of adornments: go.wlu.edu/adornments. Note that only ONE representative of an organization (usually the President or Vice-President) should seek approval for the entire organization's adornments. The submission form will ask for the name of the student organization, the type of adornment (e.g., cords, stoles), a short description of how students will receive the regalia, a link to photos of the adornment and the adornment being worn, and a short description of the significance of the adornment.

Personal adornment or props (e.g., canes, leis, tape on caps, pick axes, messages on gowns) are not consistent with the spirit of Washington and Lee's graduation ceremonies and will not be approved.

Graduates who appear at the undergraduate Baccalaureate or law or undergraduate Commencement lineup with unapproved adornment will be asked by student or faculty marshals to remove it. The University Marshal has the authority to prevent anyone in unapproved adornment from processing.

FOOD AND DRINK: Graduates may not bring beverages or food to Baccalaureate or Commencement. University staff place bottled water under each graduate's chair.