Why Do We Wear Square Hats on Graduation Day?

Melissa W.
It’s finally your shining moment: Graduation day! All of your years of hard work have led to this. You’ve dreamt about it for years -- the moment they call out your name and you walk across the stage to receive your diploma amid a crowd of cheers. You’ve picked an outfit for photos and start to get ready for commencement -- you look great! But, one thing stands out -- the square hat with a tassel hanging from it, and you wonder, “who came up with THIS idea?!”

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The History of Pomp and Circumstance

Melissa W.6 comments
We’ve all heard it, the song that’s synonymous with commencement ceremonies. You’re probably singing it in your head right now. "Pomp and Circumstance," better known as “the graduation song” has been heard at the start of graduation ceremonies for decades -- but how did it come to be? 

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Spotlight: National Pan-Hellenic Council

Melissa W.
Founded 90 years ago at Howard University, the National Pan-Hellenic Council is an historically African American collaborative organization for international Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities. It was created at a time when Greek-lettered organizations founded by Black students were banned from being associated with Greek-lettered organizations founded by White students.

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It’s Pride Month: Taking a Look at the Gay-Straight Alliance on College Campuses

Melissa W.
While June is a time of celebration, all year long, members of the LGBTQ community work in groups on college campuses to promote acceptance and provide support for students who may struggle with their identity. The Gay-Straight Alliance is one many students look toward for guidance.

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Ankh Maat Wedjau Honor Society

Melissa W.
Ankh Maat Wejau provides a platform and a safe place for students to discuss Pan-African topics through community engagement and group forums. Students actively work toward breaking down social barriers plaguing the Black community, specifically for Black students.

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Student Activism and the First Amendment on College Campuses

Melissa W.
College campuses have long been synonymous with activism and protests -- from seemingly minor disputes over tuition cost hikes to fighting for larger issues like civil rights, students use their First Amendment rights to lobby for change and bring about a more fair, represented, and safer campus community.

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The National Honor Society of Scabbard and Blade: Recognizing Military Members

Melissa W.
Founded in 1904 by five cadet officers at The University of Wisconsin, The National Society of Scabbard and Blade is an organization dedicated to the United States military officers through a variety of programs. Their mission is “...dedicated to developing aspiring and current military officers that emulate the Five Star qualities while fostering strong joint-service relationships.” Their organization’s vision is that their members will "redefine the standard of excellence for all military members."

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Gamma Theta Upsilon: The International Geographical Honor Society

Melissa W.
The road to the creation and accreditation of Gamma Theta Upsilon, The International Geographical Honor Society was not easy. It was originally formed as an honorary fraternity prior to WWI by a student at the University of Chicago. The initial attempt to have it recognized as a more permanent organization failed before being revived again in 1924 once the founder, Dr. Robert G. Buzzard, went to graduate school at Clark University. 

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