National Graduation Tassel Day is celebrated annually on May 17 to honour students, their academic accomplishments, and the beginning of their careers. Despite the United States’ remarkable high school graduation rates, this accomplishment is not simple. It requires years of effort, commitment, and persistence. National Graduation Tassel Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by students to achieve their aspirations. This is the ideal time to celebrate your progress!
The background of National Graduation Tassel Day
A mortarboard cap with a dangling tassel is the most well-known symbol of graduation. The tassel also displays the institution’s colours. Tradition dictates that when their name is called, the new graduate adjusts the tassel from right to left before proceeding to the stage to receive their anticipated diploma. This custom began roughly fifty years ago!
In the 12th century, when European universities honoured academic excellence and Latin was the language of instruction, the commencement ceremony originated. The typical graduation attire consisted of a cap and gown, or headwear adapted from Middle Ages university staff attire. The attire was inspired by mediaeval clergy and has remained largely unchanged throughout the centuries. During a typical commencement ceremony, graduates receive their degrees and throw their graduation caps into the air.
In May, colleges and universities across the nation typically hold commencement ceremonies for students. The auditoriums are packed with jubilant family members and friends of graduates who have gathered to witness and commemorate their loved ones’ academic achievements.
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The commencement cap and gown date back to the 12th century!
Many believe the mortarboard-style graduation cap was influenced by the biretta, a Roman Catholic clergy hat.
Mortarboard headwear are square-shaped to give them an appearance of erudition, and some believe the hat also represents a book.
At the outset of graduation ceremonies, tassels are traditionally worn on the right side of the hat, and once diplomas are awarded, they are moved to the left.
The tradition of launching graduation caps into the air began in 1912 during a ceremony at the Naval Academy.
NATIONAL GRADUATION TASSEL DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 17 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 17 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 17 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 17 | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 17 | Monday |