Robing Ceremony | LSU Clarence L. Barney Jr. African American Cultural Center

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) will be hosting an in-person Robing Ceremony for students graduating in the SPRING, SUMMER or Fall 2023 on Thursday, May 18, 2023 from 2:00p.m. – 4:00p.m. in the Bo Campbell Auditorium of the Cox Communications Academic Center for Student-Athletes. This program does not replace the students’ commencement. The ceremony will celebrate achievements and honor the intersectionality of students graduating from LSU who identify as African American/Black.

Registration and Stole Order Information

Graduates may register for the ceremony and order stoles until May 5, 2023. 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).

Graduation Stole Fee: $40.00

The direct link to order a stole and register for the ceremony is here.

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