Graduate Program
Pre-Commencement Celebration Program
MFA, OTD, Doctoral, EdS, and Master’s Degree
Friday, May 8, 2026
Exhibition Hall at Alliant Energy Center
Celebration agenda
Welcome
Stacey Lee
Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Development
Marcelle Haddix
Dean, UW–Madison School of Education
Recognition of Graduates
Percival Matthews
Associate Dean for Academic Programs
Academic Hooding
The academic hood will be formally bestowed upon MFA, OTD, and Doctoral candidates by their advisor(s).
Recognition of EdS Candidates
Educational Specialist degree candidates are called to the stage.
Recognition of Master’s Degree Candidates
Master’s degree candidates are called to the stage.
Program Concludes
The Academic Hood
The tradition of conferring the academic hood has its roots in the medieval university and symbolizes membership in the community of scholars.
Reserved for those who attain the highest degree in their fields beyond the bachelor’s degree, the hood denotes advanced scholarly and professional achievement.
The hood became part of a code of academic dress established by American colleges and universities at the end of the 19th century. That code gave meaning to the colors used in academic regalia.
The color of the hood’s lining identifies the university that granted the highest degree held by the wearer, with cardinal denoting the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
The color of the trim signifies the academic discipline in which the degree was received.
Master of Fine Arts: Brown
Doctor of Occupational Therapy: Sage
Doctor of Philosophy: Blue
“Whatever may be the limitations which trammel inquiry elsewhere, we believe that the great state University of Wisconsin should ever encourage that continual and fearless sifting and winnowing by which alone the truth can be found.”
Stay Connected with the Career Center!
Did you know the Career Center is a post-graduation resource? It’s not just for students!
- Support or mentor future students
- Access School of Education Career Center alumni resources
- Connect with a career advisor