Graduate student Katie Dues and pharmacy student Lauren Courie model the new regalia. December graduates will be the first to wear the new, customized robes.

Commencement ceremonies at the University will look a little different this year – specifically, more colorful and more distinct than in years past. No longer will graduates march the Arch wearing the all-black satin-finish robe that has been seen walking across the commencement stage for so many years.

December 2007 graduates will be the first to attend commencement ceremonies wearing new matte black robes, made of a better-quality fabric and customized to the University with orange stripes on the sleeves – one stripe indicates a bachelor’s degree, and a bell sleeve with two stripes indicates a master’s degree. According to University stores coordinator Jenni Smith, UF is the first school to use double stripes on the master’s gown.

“The new regalia is beautiful,” said Smith. “The quality is much higher, but the price is the same. The students are not paying for the difference.”

Also new this year is an optional stole of gratitude. Made of orange satin, with the UF seal embroidered on it, the stole is worn during the commencement ceremony. Afterwards, the graduate may present it to someone who provided extra help or support during his or her education at UF – a mentor, spouse, parent, other relative or friend. More than one stole may be worn.

Jay Canterbury, University stores manager, and Smith wanted the University to be an area leader when it comes to commencement regalia. Canterbury and Smith felt that because students were celebrating such an achievement during commencement, that the regalia should match the occasion in prestige, quality and class. They presented their suggestion to change commencement regalia to the deans of each college, and it was unanimously approved.

The last date to order commencement regalia for the Dec. 8 commencement is Dec. 1. Bachelor’s degree regalia, which includes the cap, gown and graduate tassel is $33 including tax. With the optional stole, the cost is $54.20. Master’s degree regalia is $37, and with the optional stole, the cost is $58.20. Late fees will apply for December graduates who have not yet ordered their regalia.

Personalized graduation announcements also are available; a set of 10 is $12.50. To order, call the bookstore at 419-434-4561 or e-mail bookstore@findlay.edu.