Traditions

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is filled with traditions, and some of our most colorful traditions are on display during commencement. Many commencement weekend traditions here date from the origin of the University in 1898.

After a pause for several years, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette has reinstated one of its oldest and most cherished traditions — the General Commencement Ceremony. At the General Commencement Ceremony, all graduates will be in procession in one location. The decision to return to the General Commencement was to restore a tradition cherished by many previous graduates. This is a tradition many top universities around the world have celebrated for centuries. Seeing the entire graduating class in one centralized location speaks volumes of the graduates and is a beautiful sight for the University and family and friends of the graduates.

Recent graduates have also become accustomed to a more personal touch provided at the Academic College Ceremony. We are committed to continuing this tradition. To that effect, multiple consecutive ceremonies, by college, will be held on the same day, allowing each graduate to walk and be recognized by name.

In the Fall of 2012 the University unveiled new Commencement regalia and the University Ring. The two additions were introduced to customize the regalia and add to the tailored aura of the Commencement Ceremony.