Hooding Ceremony
The College of Education Hooding Ceremony recognizes students' achievement in earning their master's or doctoral degrees. The ceremony is also a chance for graduates to recognize the family, friends, and educators whose support helped make their graduation possible. The Hooding Ceremony has been a favorite tradition in the College of Education since it began in 2002.
> The Hooding Ceremony takes place the Friday before each graduation. If you are receiving a graduate degree, RSVP to Elvira Hoyle at 361-825-2660 at least two weeks prior (whether you plan to attend or not).
History
Historically, scholars in some higher education settings wore robes as a daily uniform. They wore hoods with these robes for warmth. Over time, the size, shape, and lining of the hood came to signify a scholar's academic rank.
The ceremonial hooding of scholars became a tradition that continues to this day. By placing the hood over the students' heads, professors symbolically welcome them as fellow scholars. Today, the hood's colors represent a graduate's university and major. The length of the hood relates to rank: the longer hoods of doctoral students represent their additional years of scholarship.
When is the Hooding Ceremony?
The Hooding Ceremony takes place the Friday before the fall, spring, and summer graduations in the University Center Ballroom. If you plan to attend, it's crucial that you RSVP so we can ensure enough seating.
What happens?
The graduates and faculty proceed into the ballroom together dressed in their regalia. After a welcome address, each student is individually called to the stage. A passage written by the student is read (students generally use this passage to thank those who have helped them with their achievements). Two professors of the student's choice will stand on either side of the student and place the hood over his or her head. A reception for you and your family will immediately follow in the University Center Commons.
If you plan to attend
College of Education students graduating with a master's or doctoral degree are encouraged to participate in the Hooding Ceremony.
- RSVP to Elvira Hoyle at 361-825-2660 at least two weeks prior to the ceremony. Mention the number of guests you will bring. If we don't hear from you, we won't know to reserve space for you and your family. RSVP even if you do not plan to attend, so we know not to call you.
- Write a passage of thanks and reflection no more than 75 words long, and submit this to Elvira Hoyle at elvira.hoyle@tamucc.edu no later than one week prior to the ceremony.
- Choose the two professors who you want to hood you, double checking with them as a courtesy. (If you have no preference, your department chair and a senior faculty member will hood you.)
- Arrive dressed in your cap and gown no later than 30 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony. Bring your hood with you. Make arrangements for your valuables and/or purse, because the room you meet in will be unattended during the ceremony.
Dr.Robert Garcia
Ed.D. Educational Leadership, '08
"The best part of the Hooding Ceremony is that it's personal. You get to share the experience with your family and introduce them to the people who shaped your education."
