b'DiSTinGUiShed GrAdUATe STUdenT SUpporT STAff AwArdTonyia StewartDirector for Graduate Recruitment and Inclusion DocTorAl PinEarning a doctoral degree is never easy. Finishing a pro-gram in the midst of a global pandemic is truly remarkable. To honor the extraordinary dedication and achievement of todays graduates, each one will receive a lapel pin designed exclusively for them. The pin features a block C logo that was in use in 1955 when Clemson offered its first doctoral degree program. Across the C are three stripes like the ones graduates are wearing on their sleeves today. DocTorAl HoodinGThe doctoral hood is a symbolic honor of distinction bestowed upon scholars who have attained the highest level of formal education available in the world, representing a typical range of five to seven years of study beyond the bachelors degree. Clemsons 46-inch-long doctoral hood is usually draped over the shoulders by the faculty member who, as chair of the advisery committee, has formally mentored and guided the students research and education.You will note that faculty members are wear-The University hasing gowns, caps and hoods of many colors and designs. These academic costumes of medieval named Clemson purpleorigin are, for faculty with degrees from U.S. institu-Regalia in a nod to thesetions, specified by a uniform code maintained by the American Council on Education. Caps are black stately gowns. and are usually mortar boards or tams with tassels. Doctors of philosophy wear gold tassels usually of metallic thread; those with other degrees wear black or discipline colors. Those who have received their degrees from institutions outside the United States wear regalia specified by the awarding institutions.Doctors gowns are full, with bell-like sleeves. The front is bordered with velvet panels and the sleeves are marked by three velvet bars. While some gowns are black with black velvet, one variation is to replace black velvet with velvet in the discipline color. A sec-ond variation is a colored gown usually of the univer-sitys colors.All hoods specify the level of degree, the type of discipline studied and the awarding institution. The width of the velvet trim conveys the degree. In addi-tion, the degree is indicated by the color of the trim edging the hood to form the throat over the gown. The most frequently seen color is dark blue, which designates the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree. Finally, the color of the hoods lining is specific to 4'