Dominican University New York values the celebratory nature of commencement and recognizes that graduates may wish to express themselves through decorated mortarboard caps and stoles. However, to ensure a positive and respectful experience for all attendees, the following policy must be adhered to:
Regalia decorations should reflect the spirit of celebration and self-expression while avoiding any expression that may cause offense or disruption.
Decorations motivated by animosity towards any individual or group based on race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, national origin, or any other protected characteristic are strictly prohibited.
The following decorations/items are not permitted on regalia:
- Profanity of any kind, offensive language, sayings, nicknames, pictures, or lyrics
- Symbols or references to alcohol, drugs/controlled substances, tobacco or weapons
- Political statements, slogans, symbols, or references to political parties
- Adornments that obstruct the view of other graduates or cause distraction, such as large three-dimensional objects, or those with distracting sounds or lights.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive. Any decoration or message that is deemed disruptive, harassing, inappropriate, or poses a safety risk will not be allowed.
Furthermore, all students and guests are advised that bags, packages and items are subject to search upon entry into this event. Likewise, banners and or signs that are not in the spirit of the event or obstructs the view of others are not permitted.
Failure to comply with this policy may result in the graduate being asked to remove their cap, stole, and or regalia, and wear an undecorated version, or they may be prohibited from participating in the commencement ceremony altogether. Please note that Dominican University New York reserves the right to remove any persons whose behavior is considered unruly or found illegal.
For any inquiries regarding this policy, please reach out to the Office of Student Development at 845-848-4080.