NDSU’s spring commencement will have a distinctive new look.

Undergraduate students earning their bachelor’s degrees will now wear dark green caps and gowns instead of the traditional black.

“By transitioning the undergraduate gowns to the custom NDSU color, all graduates participating in the ceremony will have a distinguished and unified appearance,” said Jackie Schluchter, associate registrar. “Additionally, a new option for students is the Stole of Gratitude, which are yellow stoles that bear the letters ‘NDSU’ and the university’s seal.”

The stoles can be purchased to thank people who have helped students in their educational journey. The stole is worn by the student during the ceremony, but is then presented to a person chosen by the student who provided extraordinary support and turned a dream into reality.

Students earning master’s or doctoral degrees moved to the dark green robes for the spring 2015 ceremony.

“Students are able to purchase their custom NDSU regalia on the NDSU Bookstore website or in the store starting on April 15,” said Kim Anvinson, NDSU Bookstore director. “April 15-16 are the dates of our spring Grad Fair event, and we recommend students participating in commencement attend so they can get everything they need for graduation and commencement.”

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