Chung Chi Graduation Ceremony in the old days

Chung Chi Graduation Ceremony

When it comes to Chung Chi’s annual grand occasions, the graduation ceremony must be one of them. Chung Chi’s first graduation ceremony was held in the hall of St. Stephen’s Girls’ College in 1955. After the College had relocated its campus to Ma Liu Shui, the graduation ceremony was held in the Multi-purpose Hall. Upon the inauguration of the Chung Chi College Chapel in 1962, the ceremony was usually held there.

In the early graduation ceremonies, Chung Chi graduates did not put on academic regalia. Male graduates wore formal suits while female graduates dressed in white cheongsam (traditional Chinese dresses worn by women). In honour of this special occasion, they had their hair set and were well groomed. It was not until the late 1950s that Chung Chi graduates put on caps and gowns during the graduation ceremony. In this graduation season, we would like to share with recent Chung Chi graduates a message delivered by the former President of Chung Chi College, Dr. Lin Dao Yang, at the fifth graduation ceremony held in 1959 as a token of encouragement.

“Ladies and gentlemen, you will always be part of the Chung Chi family. When we say goodbye, we can’t help feeling sad. In the future, we won’t be able to see you on campus all the time, just like in the good old days when you were studying at Chung Chi. Nevertheless, I believe that your happy memories in the College will always be on your mind, and you will visit us from time to time. Come and share with us your endeavours, problems, and achievements. I wish you happiness in your chosen career path and in the years to come. May God bless each and every one of you.”