Stories
CapU Convocation regalia gets a makeover
Capilano University’s Convocation just got a lot more colourful. Graduates who crossed the stage on June 3 and 4, 2019 wore vibrant new hoods and stoles in the University’s brand colours over their traditional black Convocation gowns—a fitting wrap up to the University’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
“The University’s 50th anniversary and rebrand gave us the opportunity to revitalize academic dress,” says events and ceremonies manager, Julie Vanderyagt. “The old hoods were a bit dull, and didn’t reflect CapU’s vivid colours and identity.”
Students who graduated with a bachelor’s degree wore a white satin hood lined with colourful chevrons representing the five Faculty colours and trimmed with the University’s primary brand colour, cyan blue.
For the first time ever, diploma and certificate graduates wore a white satin stole featuring CapU’s logo. Previously, they only wore a plain black gown.
“The stole is a symbol of academic achievement,” says Vanderyagt. “We felt it was important that every grad, no matter what credential they’ve earned, have something special that reflects the University to embellish their gown.”
There is one exception to the above academic dress. Indigenous graduates are encouraged to wear First Nations regalia or a mortar board made from cedar, which has special significance to Coast Salish people, who use cedar in their homes, canoes, clothing and blessing ceremonies.
“Wearing First Nations regalia and/or cedar mortar boards is a way for our Indigenous students to express cultural pride,” says Indigenous faculty advisor, David Kirk. “And, it’s part of the University’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and to encouraging and honouring Indigenous traditions.”