About 130 doctoral candidates in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences received their doctoral hoods Thursday evening.

The new graduates were joined by family and friends in Lisner Auditorium, where speakers offered their congratulations and imparted words of advice.

After the speeches, CCAS Dean Ben Vinson and faculty advocates gathered on the stage to bestow graduates with their colorful new hoods.

Here are some highlights from the ceremony:

1. Taking pride in your expertise

Jeffrey Brand, associate dean of graduate studies and associate professor of philosophy, said some new graduates may be on a clearly defined path after graduating, but others may not yet know where they are headed. He said while a graduate’s career path might be uncertain, a doctoral degree gives them several options and serves as an accomplishment to always take pride in.

“You’ve accomplished something immensely difficult, and I hope next time you’re about to start something big and challenging, and you’re not sure if you can see it through, you’ll always say to yourself, ‘Well, I finished my doctorate, so I bet I can do this,’” Brand said.

Brand added that a doctoral degree grants students the right to call themselves an expert in a particular field, but he said graduates should still respect those who are not experts.

“Don’t be the stupid kind of educated man, respect the expertise of others even when they don’t get to call themselves a doctor,” he said.

2. History of the hooding

Vinson shared the historical significance of the doctoral hooding, telling the audience that hooding has long been a “mark of distinction” that began sometime between the 12th and 13th centuries. He said that academics wore these hoods as a symbol of education at a time when “knowledge was held by a precious few.”

He said that the hood “symbolizes the power of knowledge and the power of creativity.”

Vinson said graduates should appreciate the significance of their hoods as they begin their next steps after graduation.

“The Ph.D. was not and is not the end of your story,” Vinson said. “Your hoods represent your opportunity, your tomorrow, which will be as awe-inspiring as the colors you now wear.”

3. Transforming knowledge

Vinson said that receiving a degree from GW distinguishes graduates because CCAS was one of the first institutions in the United States to grant a doctorate.

In receiving the prestigious degree, Vinson also told students not to forget how they have impacted their fields through their research as they move on to future careers.

“Whatever path you choose, value what you bring to the table, don’t take for granted your capacity to transform knowledge,” he said. “You’ve collected a rich reservoir of deep knowledge that may help change a life, touch a community, impact the world.”

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