Honor cords are a symbol of academic achievement and are typically worn by students who have excelled in their studies. They are often awarded to students who have maintained a high GPA, been involved in extracurricular activities, or demonstrated leadership qualities. Honor cords can be worn at graduation ceremonies, academic events, and other formal occasions.
There are many different types of honor cords, each with its own unique meaning. Some of the most common types of honor cords include:
Honor cords are a great way to recognize students for their hard work and dedication. They can also be a source of pride for students and their families. If you are eligible to wear an honor cord, be sure to do so at your next graduation ceremony or academic event.
The Significance of Honor Cords
Honor cords are a symbol of academic achievement and recognition. They are worn by students who have excelled in their studies or have made significant contributions to their school or community. Traditionally, gowns and hoods were the two primary types of academic regalia. These garments were typically fashioned from the most expensive materials that a university could afford.
In the 1920s, a group of universities in the United States began experimenting with a new form of academic regalia: the honor cord. These cords were made from a variety of materials, but they were all designed to be worn around the neck and shoulders. The first honor cords were awarded to students who had achieved a certain level of academic achievement.
Over time, the use of honor cords became more widespread. Today, they are awarded to students for a variety of reasons, including academic achievement, leadership, service, and extracurricular activities. Honor cords are a visible symbol of a student’s accomplishments and they are often worn with pride.
Materials and Colors of Honor Cords
| Material | Color |
|---|---|
| Cotton | White, black, blue, gold, silver |
| Rayon | White, black, blue, gold, silver, green, red |
| Silk | White, black, blue, gold, silver, green, red, purple |
Proper Etiquette for Displaying Honor Cords
Placement and Positioning
Honor cords should be worn over the right shoulder and draped across the chest, resting on the left hip. For multiple honor cords, they should be layered in order of precedence, with the most prestigious cord worn closest to the neck.
Visibility and Prominence
Honor cords should be worn in a way that makes them clearly visible and recognizable. They should not be tucked into clothing or obscured by other garments. Avoid wearing scarves, coats, or jackets that may cover or conceal the cords.
Length and Adjustment
The length of the honor cords should be appropriate for the wearer’s height and body type. If the cords are too long, they may drag on the ground or become entangled. If they are too short, they may not hang properly or be visible from the front.
| Honor Type | Cord Placement |
|---|---|
| Academic Honors | Worn over the right shoulder, draped across the chest, resting on the left hip |
| Leadership Honors | Worn around the neck, draped over the left shoulder |
| Athletic Honors | Worn over the right shoulder, draped across the back, resting on the left hip |
Correct Placement on a Graduation Gown
Congratulations on your graduation! After all your hard work, you’ve earned the right to wear an honor cord with pride. Here are the correct guidelines for placement on a graduation gown for each type of honor:
Cords That Drape Over the Shoulders
These cords should be placed around the neck and allowed to hang evenly over both shoulders. Center the tassel over the center of the chest.
Cords That Wrap Around the Neck
These cords should be placed around the neck and tied at the base of the neck. The tassel should hang down the center of the chest.
Cords That Loop Around the Arm
These cords are typically worn on a specific arm and should loop around the upper arm so that the tassel hangs just below the elbow. Refer to the following table for specific guidelines:
| Honor | Arm Worn |
|---|---|
| Cum Laude | Right arm |
| Magna Cum Laude | Left arm |
| Summa Cum Laude | Left arm, over the Magna Cum Laude cord |
In addition to the basic placement guidelines, here are some additional tips for wearing honor cords:
- If you are receiving multiple honor cords, they should be worn in the order of their prestige.
- Honor cords should not be worn over the hood of your gown.
- Make sure that your honor cords are clean and pressed before the ceremony.
Distinguishing Between Cord Colors and Meanings
Each color of honor cord carries a distinct meaning, signifying different academic achievements or affiliations. Here’s a breakdown of the most common cord colors and their corresponding significance:
| Color | Meaning | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | Academic excellence | Phi Beta Kappa, National Honor Society |
| Silver | Academic achievement | Sigma Xi, National Junior Honor Society |
| Blue | Leadership and service | Boy Scouts of America, National Beta Club |
| Red | Community service and citizenship | Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity |
| Green | Environmental awareness and conservation | Earth Day, Sierra Club |
| Orange | Diversity and inclusion | National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) |
| Purple | Spirituality and religion | Knights of Columbus, B’nai B’rith |
| Yellow | Arts and culture | Drama Club, Music Honor Society |
| Black | Drama and the performing arts | International Thespian Society |
It’s important to note that the specific meanings associated with honor cord colors may vary depending on the organization or institution granting the award. It’s always advisable to consult with the awarding entity for the exact significance of the cord color.
Wearing Multiple Honor Cords
When wearing multiple honor cords, it is important to follow a set of guidelines to ensure they are displayed respectfully. The following steps provide a detailed guide on how to wear multiple honor cords:
1. Determine the Order of Importance
Honor cords should be arranged in order of importance, with the most prestigious cord worn first. This order is typically determined by the awarding organization. Cords equal in importance should be worn side by side.
2. Position the Cords
The cords should be arranged over the shoulders, with the center medallions hanging at approximately the same level. The left shoulder should be reserved for honor cords, while the right shoulder is typically used for the academic hood.
3. Cross the Cords
The cords should be crossed in front of the body, with the left cord going over the right.
4. Secure the Cords
The cords should be secured using a safety pin or button at the point where they cross in front of the body. This helps prevent the cords from slipping or becoming tangled.
5. Drape the Cords
The cords should be draped over the arms, with the tails hanging evenly on both sides. The tails should reach approximately mid-thigh level. If the cords need extra secure, a tassel holder can be used to keep them in place.
The Importance of Proper Cord Presentation
Honor cords are a symbol of academic achievement and should be worn with pride. However, it is important to wear them correctly in order to maintain their significance and avoid confusion.
6. Wearing Multiple Cords
When wearing multiple cords, it is important to follow a specific order of precedence. The most prestigious cords should be worn at the front, followed by cords of lesser importance. The order of precedence can vary depending on the institution, but a general guideline is as follows:
- Presidential cords
- Graduation cords
- Honorary cords
- Award cords
- Recognition cords
- Club cords
Within each category, cords should be worn in descending order of importance. For example, a presidential cord for a higher office should be worn in front of a presidential cord for a lower office.
| Category | Order of Precedence |
|---|---|
| Presidential cords | Highest office to lowest office |
| Graduation cords | Highest degree to lowest degree |
| Honorary cords | Most prestigious to least prestigious |
| Award cords | Most significant award to least significant award |
| Recognition cords | Most important recognition to least important recognition |
| Club cords | Most exclusive club to least exclusive club |
Storage and Preservation of Honor Cords
Proper storage and preservation ensure the longevity and appearance of honor cords. Here are some recommended practices for preserving them:
1. Clean Storage Environment
Store cords in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Avoid areas with moisture, dust, or extreme temperatures.
2. Separate Storage
Keep cords separated from other textiles to prevent snagging or discoloration.
3. Avoid Sharp Surfaces
Do not hang cords on sharp objects that could cause cuts or tears.
4. Roll or Coil Cords
Avoid folding cords to prevent creases and damage. Instead, roll or coil them loosely.
5. Protect from Light and Moisture
Store cords away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture to prevent fading and deterioration.
6. Use Acid-Free Tissue Paper
If storing cords in a box or container, wrap them in acid-free tissue paper to prevent chemical reactions that could damage the cords.
7. Consider Long-Term Storage Solutions
For long-term preservation, consider using a display case with UV protection or a dedicated storage bag made from archival materials.
Honor Cords as a Symbol of Achievement
Honor cords are worn by students to signify academic achievement and recognition. They are often awarded at graduation ceremonies, but they can also be worn at other events such as award ceremonies or induction ceremonies.
8. How to Wear Honor Cords
Honor cords are typically worn around the neck, with the tassels hanging down in front. The cords should be worn on the left shoulder, with the tassels hanging over the right shoulder. The cords should be placed over the gown, but under the hood if you are wearing one.
If you are wearing multiple honor cords, they should be worn in order of importance. The most important cord should be worn closest to the neck, with the other cords hanging below it.
Here is a table summarizing the different ways to wear honor cords:
| Situation | How to Wear Honor Cords |
|---|---|
| Wearing one honor cord | Wear the cord around the neck, with the tassels hanging down in front. The cord should be worn on the left shoulder, with the tassels hanging over the right shoulder. |
| Wearing multiple honor cords | Wear the cords around the neck, with the tassels hanging down in front. The most important cord should be worn closest to the neck, with the other cords hanging below it. |
| Wearing honor cords with a gown | Wear the cords over the gown, but under the hood if you are wearing one. |
The Role of the Tassel in Honor Cords
The tassel on an honor cord is a significant symbol that represents the wearer’s academic or professional achievements. It is typically made of rayon or silk and is attached to the cord at one end. The color of the tassel indicates the wearer’s field of study or organization.
Here is a table summarizing the typical tassel colors and their corresponding fields of study or organizations:
| Tassel Color | Field of Study/Organization |
|---|---|
| Gold | Academic Honor Societies (e.g., Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi) |
| Silver | Business and Professional Organizations (e.g., Beta Alpha Psi, Delta Sigma Pi) |
| Red | Leadership and Service Organizations (e.g., National Honor Society, Student Government Association) |
| Blue | Education and Teaching Organizations (e.g., Kappa Delta Pi, Phi Delta Kappa) |
| Green | Health and Medical Organizations (e.g., Phi Mu Alpha, Phi Chi) |
| Purple | Arts and Humanities Organizations (e.g., Phi Mu Alpha, Pi Kappa Lambda) |
| Orange | Engineering and Technology Organizations (e.g., Tau Beta Pi, Eta Kappa Nu) |
| Yellow | Science and Mathematics Organizations (e.g., Sigma Xi, Pi Mu Epsilon) |
| White | Nursing and Allied Health Organizations (e.g., Sigma Theta Tau, Alpha Tau Delta) |
In addition to its color, the tassel also has a specific shape and length. Typically, a doctoral tassel is longer than a master’s or bachelor’s tassel. The shape of the tassel may also vary depending on the organization or institution issuing it.
Respecting the Tradition of Honor Cords
History and Significance
Honor cords are a symbol of academic achievement and recognition. Their roots can be traced back to medieval universities, where they were worn by students who had excelled in their studies. Over time, they evolved into a tradition across many educational institutions.
Proper Attire
Honor cords should be worn over the academic gown and draped around the neck. The specific manner of wearing them can vary slightly depending on the institution, but the general principles are as follows:
Placement
The tassel at the end of the cord should hang in the center of the chest, just below the chin.
Length
The cords should be long enough to reach the bottom of the gown, but not so long that they drag on the ground.
Decoration
Honor cords are typically adorned with various decorations, such as tassels, braids, and beads. These decorations represent the student’s achievements and affiliations.
Multiple Cords
If a student is eligible for multiple honor cords, they should be worn together in the following order:
| Cords in Order of Importance |
|---|
| Most prestigious |
| Second most prestigious |
| Third most prestigious |
After the Ceremony
Following the graduation ceremony, honor cords can be removed and kept as a memento of the student’s accomplishments.
Respecting the Tradition
Wearing honor cords is a privilege bestowed upon students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance. It is important to treat them with respect and adhere to the established traditions of their use.
Honor Cords: A Guide to Proper Wearing
Honor cords are a symbol of academic achievement and recognition. They are typically worn by students who have earned a certain GPA, completed a specific program, or achieved a particular honor. The proper way to wear an honor cord varies depending on the institution and the specific honor being recognized. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed.
In general, honor cords should be worn over the left shoulder and draped across the right side of the body. The cord should be tied in a simple knot or bow at the waist. The tassel should hang down over the right hip. If multiple honor cords are being worn, they should be arranged in order of precedence, with the most prestigious cord being worn closest to the neck.
Honor cords are a symbol of pride and accomplishment. They should be worn with respect and care. By following the proper guidelines for wearing honor cords, you can ensure that you are honoring the recognition that you have earned.
People Also Ask About Honor Cords How To Wear
How do I wear an honor cord for graduation?
Honor cords are typically worn over the left shoulder and draped across the right side of the body. The cord should be tied in a simple knot or bow at the waist. The tassel should hang down over the right hip.
What side do you wear honor cords on?
Honor cords are typically worn over the left shoulder and draped across the right side of the body.
How long should honor cords be?
The length of honor cords can vary, but they are typically between 50 and 60 inches long.
