In this celebration of mentorship, students of color honor mentors who have helped them succeed. In return, mentors give students a stole — a long scarf — made of boldly colored kente cloth that is embroidered with “MHC” and special symbols.

The Stoling Ceremony was organized in May 2005 by various Elders (faculty and staff of color who volunteered beyond their daily work responsibilities) of Mount Holyoke College as an initiative to acknowledge the unique experiences of students of color who attend predominantly white institutions. 

The ceremony is a celebration and a moment for reflection. In addition, it is an opportunity for the seniors to name (and thank!) a mentor who played a key role in their persistence to graduation (i.e., advisor, dining staff, facilities staff, faculty, residential life staff, administrative staff, coach). The heart of the program is the moment of gratitude as the mentor presents the student with a stole (kente or satin), and the student offers the mentor a flower in exchange.

This traditional commencement event is now coordinated and sponsored by the SGA Students of Color Committee, and Community and Belonging, Division of Student Life.

The ceremony is open to both domestic and international students of color. 

To participate, you must complete the registration below by the due date.

• Class 2020 Stoling Ceremony Registration Form - Due by Friday, April 22, 11:59pm EST

Dress is all black-semi formal attire (NOTE: You may include adornments which reflect your culture, heritage, or traditions, as long as the primary attire, including shoes are black).