ECTC announces Gowns for Grads initiative

Published on Mar 7, 2024

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College (ECTC) recently announced the creation of Gowns for Grads, a lending program for students who don’t have extra funds for graduation caps and gowns. 

“The graduation ceremony is such an important event in a student’s life, and some won’t attend because they don’t have the ability to purchase new caps and gowns,” said ECTC Director of Admissions and Assessment Judy Akers. “We want to help with that.” 

Faculty and staff have been known to purchase caps and gowns for students in need, but this initiative will allow ECTC to ensure all students can walk the line appropriately attired if they want to, Akers said. 

Gowns for Grads relies partly on ECTC alumni to donate previously used graduation regalia, but the public also is encouraged to contribute to the Gowns for Grads Lending Closet fund, which will be used to purchase new caps and gowns for graduates. A gift of $50 will cover the cost of one cap and gown and related fees. 

“Fifty dollars should not stand in the way of students walking the graduation line and celebrating their accomplishments,” Akers said. 

For more information, contact Akers at 270-706-8701 or judy.akers@kctcs.edu. To support the fund with a one-time or monthly credit card payment, visit ectc.us/give and select Gowns for Grads Lending Closet.