Cap and Gown Weekend
September 21-22, 2002

Cap and Gown Weekend: A Trinity Tradition

Cap and Gown Weekend is a very important and festive time for the College community, and is a tradition that dates back to 1903 with Trinity's first senior class - the red class of 1904. Cap and Gown Weekend formally marks the beginning of the new academic year, and celebrates the academic achievements of the senior class. The tradition also marks the first time that seniors may wear their academic caps and gowns.

Cap and Gown Convocation will be held on Saturday, September 21, at 5:00 p.m. in Notre Dame Chapel. Convocation will begin with a procession featuring the senior class banner and state flags, followed by the seniors processing in their caps and gowns. President Patricia McGuire will formally launch the new academic year with remarks to the seniors, and the prestigious St. Catherine's Medal will be presented to a member of the senior class. Kellyanne Fitzpatrick Conway '89, a pollster and television political commentator, will be presented with the Trinity College Centennial Award for Alumnae Leadership for her outstanding professional achievements.

On Sunday, Cap and Gown Weekend continues with Mass in Notre Dame Chapel at 10 am, followed by a brunch, and a Courtyard Sing in Seymour Court, with all of the classes participating. As the seniors process out of Notre Dame Chapel, they are presented with flowers and balloons, and congratulated by students, faculty, and families, creating a festive celebration.

Cap and Gown Weekend is a high point in a student's academic career, and an event that all students look forward to because of its unique meaning in the Trinity community.

Return to Cap and Gown Main Page