At SUNY Poly, as at many other campuses, it is traditional to decorate commencement regalia with specific adornments that signify an academic honor or recognition the student has achieved. Adornments may also be of a more personal nature, such as cap decorations.
Students may choose to wear adornments that are appropriate to the occasion while respecting the event’s importance for all involved. Adornments must not be dangerous or disruptive to the proceedings.
If your adornment is of academic or cultural significance and you would like to request that its meaning be considered for inclusion in the “Academic Attire” section of the commencement program, please fill out this application form by March 15 prior to graduation:
Any questions should be directed to the Provost’s Office.
Examples of common adornments:
Cords: Braided or twisted threads with tassels at the ends, worn around the neck and draped with both ends in front of the gown. Meaning is generally indicated by cord colors.
Stole: Band of cloth, often decorated, worn around the neck and draped with both ends in front of the gown. Often pointed at the ends.
Sash: Band of cloth, often decorated, worn over one shoulder only or draped diagonally across the front of the gown.
Pin: Often with organization logo, worn on the front of the gown or on a stole or sash.
