Ceremony

What is a ceremony?

A ceremony is a set of rules aimed at properly organizing the development of a formal event. It includes procedures such as discipline, hierarchy, order, elegance, respect, common sense, good taste, and simplicity.
At Unesc, as is the case in more modern universities, we opt for more innovative ceremonies, while observing the basic rules of respect for the protocol of ceremonies.

How did the ceremony originate?

Due to the rapid development of institutional relationships in the academic environment, a series of rules was developed for better performance in new social roles, marking the emergence of the ceremony. The word ceremony comes from the Latin caerimoniale and refers to religious ceremonies, which, since ancient times, were governed by the rules of tribal organizations. However, it was in the Middle Ages that it gained prominence in European feudal courts.

What are the fundamental functions of a ceremony?

The current trend in ceremonies is simplification. Many rules have become obsolete. The main functions associated with ceremonies are:

• ritual function – in addition to precedences, gestures and precepts, honors and privileges, and symbols of power;
• semiological function – formal language, international and diplomatic language, treatment and courtesy formulas, official writing and expression;
• legislative function – codification of rules and precepts into protocol and ceremony norms, in both internal and external plans;
• gratuitous function – hedonism, frivolity, festivity, playful activity that can undermine etiquette;
• pedagogical function – teaching civilization and culture.

Who is responsible for the graduation ceremonies?

The graduation ceremonies are the responsibility of the Rectory and are coordinated by the Events Supervision, linked to the Integrated Communication Sector.

Are audiovisual presentations allowed at the ceremony?

Only one musical presentation is allowed, even if the ceremony is celebrating the graduation of more than one undergraduate program. Unesc reserves the right to display its institutional videos on the screens at the beginning of the graduation ceremony. The videos of the graduates should be shown before the start of the graduation ceremony.

Who is responsible for the event's ceremony?

The ceremony is the responsibility of the University. Any inclusion in the official protocol must be approved by the Rectory.

Is there a script for the graduation ceremony?

Yes. The graduation ceremony must follow the following basic script:

• composition of the head table;
• introduction of the graduates into the ceremony venue;
• execution of the national anthem;
• oath;
• acceptance of the oath by the magnificent rector or their legal representative;
• nominal call of the graduates to receive their degree and certificate;
• awards/honors (when applicable);
• speech by the class representative;
• speech by the honorary speaker;
• speech by the rector or their legal representative;
• closing of the session by the rector.

What is included in Unesc's decoration project for graduation ceremonies?

The decoration project of the University includes:

• Unesc and course banners;
• decorated authorities' table;
• flags;
• entrance music (CD);
• national anthem (CD);
• In addition to the items above provided free of charge by Unesc, in all graduation ceremonies, classes that hire companies can also count on other decorations, as agreed with the service.

What are the rights and responsibilities of outsourced companies that facilitate graduation ceremonies?

• When the decoration project is carried out by an external company, in addition to the decoration mentioned above, the name of Unesc must be prominently displayed.
• Contracts with external outsourced companies depend on the consent of all classes/students graduating in that session.
• It is prohibited for the organizing outsourced companies hired by the graduates to advertise in the venue of the graduation ceremony.

What are the ceremonial requirements when events are held by outsourced companies?

When graduations and other events are held through the hiring of services from companies, guidelines regarding the use of gowns, caps, and course sashes, as well as the preparation of course plaques, are provided. It is essential to ensure adherence to the ceremony and the order of precedence in events that Unesc promotes or hosts.

What does a master of ceremonies do?

The master of ceremonies is the conductor of the event. It is their responsibility to lead the event confidently from start to finish; prepare a list of present authorities, identify and create the names of the authorities to be mentioned by the host of the ceremony; check the sound; guide the waiters and receptionists regarding the composition of the head table and conduct the ceremony. The master of ceremonies must have perfect diction, a firm voice, good posture, discretion, and sobriety, and should wear discreet clothing and be able to improvise.

Does Unesc provide masters of ceremonies for events?

Yes. The master of ceremonies services at Unesc are free and can be requested at cerimonial@unesc.net. If graduates wish to have another master of ceremonies, they must officially submit the request at least 60 (sixty) days in advance, through a formal letter, to the Undergraduate Teaching Pro-Rectorate. If approved, the master of ceremonies must assist in the preparation of the protocol and participate in the rehearsal.