Lending color to the pageantry of the inaugural ceremony are the robes and hoods worn by the faculty and delegates. This regalia dates back to medieval times when it served a functional as well as an ornamental role, separating the learned men from other groups and offering warmth and protection.

In late 19th century America, a conference was held by representatives of colleges and universities to bring more order and system to the custom of academic dress. Since then, there have been periodic conferences to revise or reconfirm existing practices.

Essentially, holders of the bachelor’s degree wear black robes unadorned. Holders of the master’s degree wear hoods that are lined with the colors of the college conferring the degree and trimmed with the color representing the subject in which the degree was earned. The doctoral robe is adorned with velvet and also is worn with the hood suitably ornamented.

Holders of degrees from foreign universities or religious orders wear the entire academic costumes as decreed by the conferring institutions.

President Frank T. Brogan wears presidential regalia. The four chevrons on the sleeve of the robe are used only by university presidents. The colors of the chevrons and master’s hood – blue and silver – are the official FAU regalia colors.