The Donning of the Kente (DOK) is an annual cultural commencement ceremony celebrating the graduation of students who recognize their African roots. The Donning of the Kente Ceremony utilizes the Ghanaian Kente cloth as a symbol of African American heritage in the adornment of the graduation robe. Family, colleagues, and friends gather to celebrate the achievements of graduates receiving their undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees. The Black Organizations Council (BOC) designs this ceremony to provide graduates with a positive and rewarding experience which recognizes them for their hard work and dedication. Family and friends are a very important part of this recognition ceremony and are given an opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of their loved ones. Each graduate that participates in the ceremony will receive a Kente stole, which they are able to wear during the University's commencement ceremonies.

Virginia Tech was one of the first institutions in the state to celebrate Donning of the Kente beginning in 1995. The 39th semi-annual Donning of the Kente Ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 15, 2014 at 2:00 pm in the Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center. A dessert reception will be held immediately after the ceremony, also in the Commonwealth Ballroom.

Please visit www.mps.vt.edu to RSVP to participate in the ceremony or attend as a faculty or staff member, administrator or guest.
More information...

Location:	Commonwealth Ballroom, Squires Student Center
Price:	Free to attend, RSVP requested
Sponsor:	Black Organizations Council and Multicultural Programs and Services
Contact:	Kristen Swanson Houston kshouston@vt.edu 540-231-8584
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