On behalf of the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Class of 2027, we respectfully petition Saint Mary's College to update the doctoral regalia currently worn at Commencement.

The current regalia, a standard black gown with velvet stripes, is not distinct to Saint Mary's and does not reflect the identity of the College. We request that graduating DNP students instead be permitted to wear regalia modeled on the custom design worn by President Katie Conboy and honorary doctoral recipients at Inauguration (pictured below).

As the College's only doctoral program, the DNP cohort is uniquely positioned to represent Saint Mary's at this level. Many of our graduates go on to work in academic and clinical leadership settings where doctoral regalia is worn at institutional ceremonies, often representing Saint Mary's before other universities and colleges. Distinct regalia would let us represent the College with the same visual identity it presents at its own highest ceremonies.

This request goes beyond appearance. The regalia marks years of rigorous coursework, clinical hours, and a doctoral project. It is the visible marker of that work on the one day it's formally recognized. Establishing distinct doctoral regalia now would also set a precedent for future DNP cohorts, giving the program a lasting identity within Saint Mary's Commencement traditions.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this request and are happy to provide any additional information needed to move it forward.