Hooding & Recognition Ceremony

Due to space limitations in Graham Chapel, we are asking each graduate student to limit the amount of in-person guests at the ceremony to four (4) per graduate. We will livestream the ceremony in Wrighton Hall, Room 300. If you have a large group attending, we ask that any guests beyond the limit watch the livestream there.

Graduates, please check your email from May 8 for your ceremony tickets. Each guest will need to show a ticket to enter the ceremony. Both virtual and printed tickets are accepted.

Graduates will gather on the first floor of Eads Hall. Check-in begins at 9:45 a.m. All graduates must be checked in by 10:15 a.m.

Students may not bring bags of any type, including the bag the regalia comes in, to the ceremony. Please plan ahead, and do not bring a bag or any other prohibited items. Your rented regalia contains pockets that will accommodate small items (keys, phone, etc.). Students should bring, but not wear, their hoods to the ceremony. Students will receive guidance while lining up on how to carry their hoods on an arm to then be hooded by a faculty member on stage.

We highly encourage you to take your regalia, including the hood, out of the bag a few days before the ceremony and steam it, including the hood.

Photos will be taken of ceremony participants by GradImages. Once the photos are ready to view, GradImages will e-mail ceremony participants directly with a link to their photos. You can also search the GradImages website for your name, along with that of Washington University.

• When to arrive: The doors of Graham Chapel open at 10:00 a.m.
• Tickets: Each guest will need to show a ticket to enter the ceremony. Both virtual and printed tickets are accepted.
• Bag policy: WashU prohibits all bags, backpacks, and other carriers from being brought into the ceremony with the following exceptions:
  • Clear bags, not to exceed 14″ x 14″ x 4″
  • Small clutches or purses, not to exceed 4″ x 6″
  • Medically necessary bags, including diaper bags

All approved bags are subject to inspection upon entry. Guests with bags or items that do not satisfy the bag policy are encouraged to return their bags or items to their vehicle. WashU will not provide clear bags. All attendees, including graduates, will need to go through metal detectors upon entry.

• Prohibited items: The following items are prohibited in all university and school ceremonies and events, and are subject to confiscation
  • Air horns and other artificial noisemakers
  • Animals, except assistance animals
  • Banners or signs larger than 2’ x 3’ (no poles of any kind will be allowed)
  • Food and drink (except water)
  • Firearms and weapons
  • Lasers/Laser lights
  • Balloons, glitter and confetti
  • Unmanned aircrafts and drones

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events. If you, and/or one of your guests, have a disability and require any accommodations to fully participate in the SPH Hooding and Recognition Ceremony, please contact Katharine Pei, associate dean for student affairs. Requests should be made at least two weeks prior to your arrival to campus.