Petition for graduation stoles tabled
by Chris Taylor, editor-in-chiefy

    An administrative decision on a petition from South Campus students regarding graduation has been postponed for further study.

   Members of the Latino Student Union (LSU) petitioned the administration to allow Hispanic students to wear a special stole during the graduation ceremonies Wednesday, May 15.

   A recent memo from Dr. Leonardo de la Garza, chancellor, states that with commencement only three weeks away, it is too soon to implement such a procedure because other groups at TCC must receive the same consideration and be allowed to submit their ideas for special stoles also.

   The chancellor said various groups at TCC will discuss the matter for possible implementation at next year’s graduation ceremony.

   “In their deliberations, these students and their mentors will seek not only to foster pride and honor related to culture, but also to couple those ideals with an opportunity to celebrate student leadership, service to community and academic achievement,” he said.

   Carlos Escorcia, president of South Campus’ Latino Student Union (LSU), wanted the opportunity to wear a special commencement stole, which would be a symbol of cultural pride and a celebration of his academic achievement.

   The special stole would convey an image of Hispanic heritage with multi-colored bands on a royal blue background and features symbols of diamonds and arrows.

   “I plan with this stole to advocate for the Latino community. I want people who actually do graduate to be noticed,” Escorcia told the Star-Telegram in a recent interview.

   This was the first request for a special stole in the history of TCC. No regulations exist regarding the use of stoles.

   At present, only students in the Cornerstone honors program and Phi Theta Kappa honor society wear any distinctive accessory with their gowns.

   Escorcia told the Star-Telegram that LSU members enlisted the help of the League of United Latin American Citizens to generate support for their proposal.

   “It’s the understanding of the culture. The demographics are changing substantially, and we need to be sensitive to that,” Dan Chacon, South Campus dean of student development and educational services, said.

   Chacon said in an earlier interview that he thought Escorcia and his group would get approval.

   TCC records from fall 2001 indicate 13.7 percent of students on all four campuses are Hispanic.

   Escorcia has indicated that he would not oppose other groups wearing different style stoles, but would continue efforts to get his proposal approved.

   He and two other students have already purchased the commemorative stoles and are awaiting their delivery.