Robing Ceremony
History
In 1996, Gwendolyn E. Snearl and Tayarikwa Salaam developed a program to honor and celebrate the achievements of African American students graduating from LSU. Thus, the Robing Ceremony was born. The Robing Ceremony recognizes and celebrates the successful passage of these students through Louisiana State University into the community. It is no surprise that the Robing Ceremony continues to be an event that is eagerly anticipated by the entire community.
The Kente Cloth
The graduation stole, "Kente Cloth" presented to the LSU graduates is custom made and woven in Ghana, West Africa. The patterns and colors woven into the Kente cloth represent distinctive qualities exemplified by Louisiana State University graduates. The colors not only represent the tradition of our great University but also the culture, royalty, and precious metals from our rich heritage.Robing Ceremony
The Clarence L. Barney African American Cultural Center (AACC) hosts an in-person Robing Ceremony for graduating students. This program does not replace the students’ commencement. The ceremony celebrates achievements and honors the intersectionality of students graduating from LSU who identify as African American/Black.
Date: May 16, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (CT) in the LSU Cox Communications Academic Center for Student Athletes, Bo Campbell Auditorium
Registration and Stole Order Information
Graduates may register for the ceremony and order stoles until May 8, 2024. The graduation stoles are custom made and feature patterns and colors woven into the stoles to represent distinctive qualities exemplified by LSU graduates. Graduates will be notified when stoles are available for pick-up. Graduates will only be able to pick up Graduation Stoles in person. (Shipping will not be available). Order a stole and register for the ceremony.
Graduation Stole Fee: $40.00
Questions
For more information, please visit or contact the following office:
Clarence L. Barney Jr. African American Cultural Center
86 Veterans Drive (next to Barnes & Noble)
225-578-1627
aacc@lsu.edu