The 2012 University of Kansas Doctoral Hooding Ceremony will take place on
Saturday, May 12, 2012 at 3:30 p.m. at the Lied Center
Information about the 2012 Commencement can be found here.

Candidates, faculty hooders, or guests who require accommodations should contact the Office of Graduate Studies at 864-8040 or graduate@ku.edu for assistance and information.

Meaning and History of Academic Regalia

According to California State University at Fresno, the regalia associated with the commencement ceremony have their origins in the early universities of medieval Europe. Graduates often dressed in modified ecclesiastical attire, which consisted of the mortarboard, the hood and the robe. Today, American colleges and universities use similar attire; however, the length of the gown, the color of the tassel, and the color of the outer binding of hood will vary according to the degree conferred, the field of study, and the colors of the university. To understand more about commencement regalia, visit this website.

For Departments

Call for Dissertation Award

Through the further generosity of William and Marnie Argersinger, and with the cooperation of the KU Endowment Association, we are pleased to offer the Argersinger Prize for an outstanding doctoral dissertation. William J. Argersinger, who died in 1992, was the first vice chancellor for research and graduate studies and dean of the graduate school, a position established in 1972 and which he held until 1978. Information on this award can be found here.

Call for Graduate Mentor Award

The Louise Byrd Graduate Educator Award was established in 1984 to honor the memory of Louise Byrd, long-time Secretary of the Graduate School and of the Graduate Council. Louise Byrd was noted for her deep concern for the welfare of graduate students. Each year, in her memory, a faculty member who demonstrates the qualities of concern for graduate students as scholars and individuals has been honored at the Hooding Ceremony. The names of recipients are affixed to a plaque in the Kansas Memorial Union. A monetary prize provided by the Office of Graduate Studies accompanies this award. Information on this award can be found here.

Special Assistance

Upon request, special seating or assistance during the ceremony will be provided for those with disabilities.  Please contact the Graduate Studies office at (785) 864-8040 to make these arrangements.