The academic dress, or regalia, worn at commencement has a history dating back to the middle ages. Learn more about why participants wear what they do and what the different styles indicate.
The university mace and Presidential medal are traditional symbols of authority. Both are essential pieces of any formal university event.
Gonfalons, ceremonial banners which are designed to hang from a crossbar, have historical roots dating back to the 12th century when they served as the official emblems to represent the various districts of Florence, Italy. In more recent times, gonfalons have been adopted by academia to serve as symbols to represent each college within a university. The Colleges of Graduate Studies and Research, Arts and Sciences, Business, Education and Human Development, Engineering, Fine Arts and Communication and Honors College all have their own representative banners to be placed on stage.
The Lamar University Alma Mater is sung at the end of each commencement ceremony. Gilbert Rhodes Smartt, Lamar Professor from 1945 to 1951 wrote the words and composed the music to the alma mater in 1951 in celebration of Lamar's elevation to senior college status.
Lamar to thee we're singing
Voices raised on high.
We will forever love thee
Laud thee to the sky.
We will ever need thee
As our guiding star.
To us you'll always be
Our glorious Lamar.
History, policies and information about the Otho Plummer Award, Latin Honors and the Reaud Honors College Graduates.
The day you graduate, you become an alumnus of Lamar University. Alumni are such an important part of the greater Lamar University community. Get information about photos, diplomas, class rings, gifts and Alumni Affairs.