Degree
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Document Type
Dissertation
Abstract
This study explored and documented the history and evolution of college commencement ceremonies at four Louisiana universities from the 1800s to the present. The study utilized historical inquiry and drew upon the use of archival materials, programs, photographs, newspaper accounts, institutional records, press releases, institutional websites, and observation to address the research question. The research question for the study was, “How have college commencement ceremonies in Louisiana evolved from the 1800s to the present, and in what ways do these ceremonies reflect the state's unique cultural heritage and institutional traditions?” The findings reveal that commencement ceremonies have evolved from small, elaborate exercises to large-scale events hosted in athletic arenas and stadiums. These ceremonies have been significantly shaped by political, societal, economic, and other historical forces. Their importance to both the student experience and operations of the universities has been demonstrated over time, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study contributes to higher education history by illuminating how certain Louisiana institutions use commencement as a ritual to express continuity, identity, values, status, and influence as well as show how the institutions have changed, adapted, and been transformed over time.
Date
11-3-2025
Recommended Citation
Creppel, Shayne, "A Historical Inquiry into the Evolution and Perpetuation of University Commencement Ceremonies in Louisiana, 1800s to the Present" (2025). LSU Doctoral Dissertations. 6942.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_dissertations/6942
Committee Chair
Joy Blanchard