Academic Policies

3. Guidelines Governing Commencement Ceremony Practices at Capital College

Purpose

To establish policies for Capital College's commencement ceremonies.

Introduction

The Capital College follows the general principles adopted by the University for the Commencement Ceremonies at the Harrisburg campus. The appropriate policies are outlined on the university's web page at and in the published statements provided by the President, the Provost, the Deans, and the University Faculty Senate.

Guidelines

These Guidelines applies to all cords, scarves, stoles, and/or other attire not associated with the official recognition accorded to the approved Schreyer Honors College or the Capital College's Honors programs in the commencement ceremony.

One of the key provisions in the University's Academic Costume statement informs degree candidates that "ornamentation representing honorary societies or nationalities is not approved attire for Penn State academic ceremonies." It is impossible to recognize the various regalia associated with an honorary society or organization because doing so requires an explanation to our commencement guests many of whom will not be able to see the regalia from their seating locations or will not understand the role of the honorary societies in the academic process.

These Guidelines should in no way diminish the academic accomplishments of Capital College students.

Guidelines Approved March 1, 2002