University of York to replace graduation caps with long boi hats designed by Greg James
The long boi hats will be worn alongside traditional grey gowns
The University of York will replace traditional graduation caps with “long boi” hats at upcoming ceremonies, designed by Radio 1 DJ Greg James.
The redesigned graduation headwear, featuring an extended vertical structure, will be introduced as part of a wider refresh of ceremony attire across the university.
via University of York
The Radio 1 DJ has described the concept as inspired by his long-running affinity for Long Boi.
His public admiration for the duck began back in 2023, when Long Boi shot to fame due to his extraordinary long neck. After his passing in 2023, Greg travelled north to host the Long Boi memorial, as well as unveil the Long Boi statue on University of York campus.
Greg even designed a range of Long Boi merch with Radio 1, a bucket hat and t-shirt for sale at Radio 1 Big Weekend 2024.
Speaking about the new cap design, Greg said: “It’s something that stands out straight away. Graduation photos all start to look the same after a while – this makes them a bit more memorable.”
The long boi hats will be worn alongside traditional gowns, with the extended design intended to create a more striking visual during ceremonies and the customary cap toss.
Reaction among students has been mixed, with some welcoming the change as a fun addition to an otherwise formal occasion.
Second year student Mike Take said: “It’s a bit random, but it does make graduation feel less standard. I’d be interested to see what it actually looks like in practice.”
Others have raised questions about practicality, particularly in crowded ceremony settings.
Final year student Tom Richards said: “I’m not sure how comfortable that would be for a full ceremony, especially if you’re sat behind someone with one.”
The University of York has not commented on the change at the time of publication.
Greg added: “It’s still a graduation hat – just a taller, quacking great one.”
You should probably check the date, you April fools!
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