Graduation cords stay despite rumors

As graduation draws nearer, questions about what seniors will be wearing at the celebration, including what cords will be worn and by whom, have arisen all over campus.
Along with the black cap and gown, graduating seniors also wear a series of cords that represent both academic honors organizations and various clubs. Interestingly, this tradition is not one that is practiced at many other institutions across the country, with most other colleges only have cords for honor based organizations.
“In my experience, and at my undergrad, they were all academic cords, or honor cords specifically for majors,” Gretchen Nonemaker said, director of Student Engagement.
The Hood cords extend to nearly all clubs on campus, with most student run organizations having a cord made up of one or two colors. Many students feel that club cords are an important Hood tradition that is integral to a Hood graduation.
“I think it’s a way to decorate your gown in a really special fashion, and in a way that really has meaning and reflects on your college experience,” Una Regoje said, a junior. “I think it’s a very adorable way of decorating this special occasion, and having it personalized but also mean something.”
In the past, decisions about graduation regalia have fallen on the bookstore and the provost’s office. This year, both the bookstore managing team and the provost are new, meaning that what seniors will be wearing come graduation is slightly up in the air.
“There are academic cords, and then there are these cords that are student organization based,” Nonemaker said. “Traditionally, that’s something that has come out of the provost’s office, so I think that’s where it’s sitting right now.”
Currently, because she is new to the school, Ricker is still learning all about the Hood regalia. She said she is especially looking forward to graduation and is excited to see this important Hood event.
“I am so excited about commencement at Hood.” Provost Debbie Ricker said. “I’ve never experienced it, but as it is at most institutions, it’s a great celebration of achievement and accomplishment, and I’m excited to experience it with all the Hood graduates in May.”
Currently, the bookstore has begun the process of looking at cords and figuring out who gets them.
“Right now we’re in the process of trying to find out who needs cords and which cords they need,” said Debbie Rhodes, the bookstore store manager. “We will have them ordered as soon as possible through Herff Jones.”
One thing seems clear: students have become attached to the cords, and are looking forward to getting to wear them this spring at graduation.
“Honestly, I think that without the cords, the gowns look kind of ugly and bland,” Regoje said. “So I would not like them to be removed.”