Honor Cords
Select groups of graduating students will be wearing honor cords during Class Day, University Commencement, and other Columbia graduation ceremonies. The honors are listed below and will be denoted in the GS Class Day program.
Office of Multicultural Affairs | Navy Blue and White Cord
Nomination Deadline: Sun., March 26, 5 p.m.
Presented by the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), the OMA Graduation Cords are given to graduating seniors who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to inclusion, global diversity, social justice, and multiculturalism through the OMA, campus leadership, community involvement, academic endeavors, and/or personal dedication. Cords will be distributed at a special ceremony.
Students, faculty, and staff can nominate any graduating senior in Columbia College, Columbia Engineering, or the School of General Studies.
Military Service Recognition | Red, White, and Blue Cord
Students graduating from Columbia University who serve, have served, or will be serving after graduation in the U.S. Armed Forces are invited to wear an honor cord at Commencement Week ceremonies in recognition of their service to our country.
GS Leadership | Green and White Cord
The GS Leadership Cords are awarded to students who have received a Service Award, Spirit Award, Dean’s Citation, Alumni Key Award, or Campbell Award during their time at the School of General Studies. These graduates are honored with a green and white cord.
Dual BA & Joint Degree Program | Red and Silver Cord
The GS Dual BA & Joint Degree Program Cords are awarded to graduates of the Dual BA Program Between Columbia University and Sciences Po, the Dual BA Program between Trinity College Dublin and Columbia University, the Dual Degree Program between Tel Aviv University and Columbia University, the Joint Bachelor’s Degree Program between City University of Hong Kong and Columbia University, and the Joint Degree Program with List College of the Jewish Theological Seminary.
Program for Academic Leadership and Service (PALS) | Navy Blue Stole
The Program for Academic Leadership and Service (PALS) provides access to a Columbia undergraduate education for students who have a demonstrated commitment to leadership and service.
Senior Marshals | Gold Aiguillettes
Senior Marshals are members of the graduating class who have been selected to lead the class procession.
LGBTQA Leadership | Rainbow Tassel
Lavender Graduation is an LGBTQA leadership award ceremony for Columbia and Barnard students, faculty, and staff. Graduates who attend Lavender Graduation are recognized with a rainbow tassel.