Description: How does a graduate demonstrate appreciation for a person who helped turn the dream of a college education into a reality? Hasn’t every graduate had a special person who, through moral or financial support, made a big difference in his or her life? The Stole offers an opportunity to say, “Thanks for helping me make it through.” “Thanks for making it possible for me to succeed.” “I didn’t do this alone.”
The Stole of Gratitude is worn during the commencement ceremony. After the ceremony, the new graduate presents the Stole of Gratitude to someone who provided extraordinary help or support, i.e., parents, relatives, or mentors who have helped with wisdom, words of support, or with financial assistance. Immediately after the ceremony, the graduate may take the stole from around his/her neck and place it around the neck of the recipient. More than one stole may be worn during commencement, symbolizing that there are multiple persons destined to receive Stoles of Gratitude.
The Stole may also be worn (or carried) to lunch, dinner, or any special event where a presentation is appropriate. It may be placed around the neck of the recipient with words of thanks and possibly a toast. Recipients will never forget the kindness inherent in the recognition and sentimental feelings connected with being presented the Stole of Gratitude. The fact that the presenter wears the stole during the ceremony adds a very special element to an already touching gesture. The Stole of Gratitude is a lasting symbol of love, appreciation, and academic accomplishment.
Stoles are cardinal with "I-State" embroidered in gold on one side and "Gratitude" embroidered in gold on the other side. It measures 33" long from the back of the neck to the tip of the stole.
