UTPA Memory Stoles
Hoping to inspire a new tradition at The University of Texas-Pan American,
President Dr. Blandina Cárdenas initiated the wearing of Memory Stoles at
her first commencement ceremony as the institution's leader in fall
2004.
The stoles, in the school colors of green and orange,
are emblazoned with the UTPA official seal and make a bright and
fashionable addition to the all-black graduation gown.
Candidates wear the stoles around their necks throughout
the graduation ceremonies and then afterwards are encouraged to present
the stole to a special person in an expression of gratitude. The treasured
stole could be given to mom, dad, spouse, educator or a friend who most
inspired, mentored or helped in your personal quest for knowledge.
At UTPA, a campus community that places great importance
on cherishing family and friends, Memory Stoles are a tradition that
will undoubtedly withstand the test of time.
Graduates, may you wear your Memory Stoles with
pride!
Graduate Testimonials
"I owe my success to my mother for all her love, support and
spiritual guidance. This was a long journey with many hard times and she really
guided me through it all," said Christina Beth Garza, a May 2005 graduate with a
bachelor's in Business Administration, upon giving her memory stole to her
mother Alicia Garza to thank her for her sacrifices and support to her and
her siblings.
"I gave it to him (my brother) for all the respect I have
for him and his hard work and dedication. He is the only person that I know
that through hard times never quits and never gives up," May 2005 graduate
Claudia Christina Martinez, who received a bachelor's in sociology, said of her
brother Gabriel Felipe Martinez, who donned the stole given to him by her
after the ceremony acknowledging the strong bond between him and his
sister.
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