The Order of the Gown
Learn more about the Order of the Gown and its history at Sewanee, including requirements for induction.
Gowning is a longstanding and deeply valued Sewanee tradition. During this special academic ceremony, the University community gathers to honor high-achieving students and the student-faculty relationship.
Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, induction into the Order of the Gown will take place during the University's Advent Semester Convocation. Our next Advent Semester Convocation will be held on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
In past years, gowning took place during Family Weekend. Making it part of Convocation allows its academic focus to remain central. Students will receive official notification of their acceptance into the Order of the Gown in late August or early September. Often, students have a good sense of their eligibility based on their GPA.
Families are welcome to be on campus for Convocation and gowning. Please note that seating in All Saints’ Chapel is limited to faculty, students being inducted, and those who are gowning them. All other guests may watch the live-stream from Guerry Auditorium or on their own devices and then join their students on the Quad following the ceremony.
Family Weekend will take place on Oct. 3-4, and is a celebratory weekend filled with programming and events for all families. During this special time, we will offer a dedicated opportunity to honor and celebrate our newly gowned students together. While families are always welcome on campus, if you are able to attend only one of the two weekends, Family Weekend offers a broader range of activities and opportunities for connection.
An Easter Semester Convocation and gowning will also be held in January with students receiving notification in early January. Because this service typically involves a smaller group of students, there is no limit on guest attendance. It recognizes students who become eligible following the Advent Semester, as well as those who may have been abroad in the fall or otherwise off campus.
More information, including details about gown options and the Gown Affordability Fund, will be sent to students via email shortly after the academic year begins.
