Inaugural Traditions
“Inauguration,” a word that that dates back to the mid-16th century, is a rite of passage marking a “formal or ceremonial induction to an office or dignity.” Collegiate presidential inaugurations in the United States originated with the nation’s nine colonial colleges in the 17th century and established the custom of formally acknowledging a change in leadership, within a context of continuity and tradition. Over the years, inaugurations at the University of Florida have offered an opportunity for the university community to unite in common purpose, to reflect on the past, and to envision a bright future.
The academic regalia and other ceremonial objects used during inaugurations and other major university events, such as commencement, can be traced to the world's oldest institutions of higher learning. The following describes some of these objects and their histories.
UF Academic Mace
“Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future” was the signature of the University of Florida’s sesquicentennial celebration in 2003. It was also the inspiration for the ceremonial mace that was created to mark this historic milestone. Maces date to the Middle Ages and symbolize strength and authority; each is unique and reflects the values and characteristics of the institution. The university’s chief marshal who leads all academic processions carries the mace.
The University of Florida’s 70-inch ceremonial staff combines traditional elements with modern styling. A stylized alligator rests on a globe, representing the University of Florida as an adaptable global leader in teaching, research and service. The four pillars supporting the globe represent the four original colleges: Agriculture, Engineering, Liberal Arts and Law. The cone holds the University of Florida seal and words to the Alma Mater. The staff is carved from native cherry wood. The acorn finial depicts the adage “from tiny acorns mighty oaks do grow,” a commitment to lifelong learning. The brick pattern on the handle symbolizes higher education tradition and structure. Like the institution it represents, the mace is not static; growth and movement are expressed with loose rings engraved with the names of the university’s presidents and their years in office.
Designed and crafted on the University of Florida campus, the mace artfully symbolizes those elements important to the university’s identity and history. Trung Lac, a 2003 UF Digital Arts and Sciences graduate designed the mace. The wood staff was turned by master wood turner and Fine Arts professor Brad Smith. The chemistry and physics machine shops' staffs, supported by technology from the mechanical and aerospace engineering departments, deserve thanks and credit for their craftsmanship.
Academic Regalia
The clothing worn by academics at such university ceremonies as inaugurations and commencements is rich with history, tradition and symbolism, much of it dating to England’s university in the Middle Ages. Each adornment helps reveal the wearer’s education and ranking.
Gowns
Traditionally black, the academic gown can be traced to 13th century Oxford. The cut and trim of the gown varies by the wearer’s level of degree. Long, pointed sleeves, for instance, indicate a bachelor’s degree, while oblong sleeves represent a master’s degree. Holders of doctoral degrees can be identified by their bell-shaped sleeves, the velvet panels on their front and neck, and the velvet stripes on their sleeves.
Hoods
The hood, the most colorful and distinctive piece of the academic ensemble, is descended from the cowls once worn by monks to stay warm in their drafty English monasteries. The length, lining and trim reveal the wearer’s degree, area of study and alma mater.
The hood is worn draped over the shoulders with the lining exposed. It is traditionally lined with the official school colors of the wearer’s alma mater. At the University of Florida, the lining of the hood has a blue chevron on an orange background. Likewise, the color of the hood’s trim reflects the wearer’s field of study. The length of the hood reveals the level of degree earned. A master’s degree is indicated by a 3.5 foot hood, while a doctoral degree is signified by a 4 foot hood.
Caps
Academic caps are derived from the pileus, a close-fitting cap originally worn by the ancient Romans and later adopted by the church in 1311. Two primary styles of cap have emerged: the Oxford, which is the familiar, stiff mortarboard; and the Cambridge, a beret-like soft cap. The materials used in the caps vary, but velvet is traditionally reserved for holders of doctoral degrees.
UF Alma Mater
Florida, our Alma Mater,
thy glorious name we praise.
All thy loyal sons and daughters,
a joyous song shall raise.
There palm and pine are blowing,
where southern seas are flowing,
Shine forth thy noble gothic walls,
thy lovely vine clad halls.
Neath the orange and blue victorious,
our love shall never fail.
There's no other name so glorious,
all hail, Florida, hail!