The Tuskegee University dress code has remained a hot topic across the HBCU community since HBCU Gameday reported on the policy Thursday.
Reader responses continued through the weekend and spilled into the new week. Nearly 60 substantive comments appeared beneath the original story.
Most commenters supported the new standards. However, others questioned the cost, purpose and practicality of requiring professional attire on a college campus.
The responses do not represent a scientific poll of Tuskegee students or alumni. Still, they reveal the larger debate surrounding the university’s new direction.
Tuskegee University dress code supporters welcome higher standards
Several readers connected the Tuskegee dress code to traditional HBCU expectations. They argued that students must learn how to present themselves in classrooms and professional environments.
Ron Stewart, who identified himself as a 1979 Tuskegee graduate and longtime SUNY-Buffalo State professor, supported the decision.
“I wholeheartedly support this idea,” Stewart wrote. “Heaven knows it is long overdue!”
Other commenters viewed the policy as part of preparing students for employment. Mav wrote that a friend in corporate America has seen young workers lose opportunities because of their attire and unfamiliarity with basic workplace expectations.
“This is a step in the right direction,” the commenter wrote.
Readers also supported Tuskegee University’s restrictions on cellphone use during class. Several said the combination of appropriate attire, attendance requirements and fewer distractions could improve classroom discipline.
Critics raise questions about cost
The sharpest criticism focused on whether every student can afford a larger professional wardrobe.
“My issue is that the ‘dress code’ is unrealistic and isn’t considering the financial ability of the students there,” William wrote. “Business professional DAILY? Are they funding the attire for the students?”
Tricia Blount offered a possible solution.
“Hopefully they will provide a closet with gently used or new clothing for students who may not be able to afford extra expenses such as this,” she wrote.
Other readers questioned whether one dress code fits every career. Rita noted that modern workplace expectations vary widely.
“Dress for the field you are in is my thought,” she wrote. “A Banker would dress differently than a Bio Chemist.”
Vaughn, who identified himself as an HBCU graduate and the father of three HBCU graduates, opposed the broader approach.
“College is a time of exploration and learning not subjective conformity,” he wrote.
Another commenter shifted the focus toward Tuskegee University’s responsibilities. T.T. said the institution must uphold standards involving housing, electrical problems, flooding, food availability and laundry facilities.
The reaction also produced questions about enforcement, exceptions and penalties. One recent Tuskegee graduate said professional attire was already mandatory within his major. His comment raised another issue: whether the announcement created a new university-wide standard or expanded rules already used in certain academic programs.
Tuskegee responds, but questions remain
HBCU Gameday contacted Tuskegee University seeking more information about how the dress code will work.
The questions covered enforcement, potential penalties, appeals, accommodations and student involvement. HBCU Gameday also asked whether Tuskegee would help students who cannot afford professional clothing.
Crystal Drake of Tuskegee University responded by providing President Mark A. Brown’s original letter to students. That letter served as the basis for HBCU Gameday’s initial report.
The letter confirms that faculty members will be empowered to “respond” when students are dressed outside the guidelines. It also states that students must arrive with a business suit and proper shoes. However, Tuskegee did not explain what “respond” means or whether violations could result in removal from class or disciplinary action.
The university also did not address appeals, accommodations, clothing assistance, student participation or comparable expectations for faculty and staff.
HBCU Gameday will update its reporting if Tuskegee provides additional details.
I’m a HBCU graduate and Tuskegee is one of our most prestigious universities. Those who opposed this increase in excellence clearly don’t understand why Booker T. Washington founded the Tuskgee University.
Stick to your new rules. And you wonder why the world look down on you. We are better than that. Be willing to reach for the sky. Really it’s not that hard. Trust me please don’t , spent time going against the grain. We are a proud people and one day you will want and teach your children not only how to dress, act and respect authority. Why do you think this administration looks past us? African American have for years taught our young people to dress for success. Just do it, college is a great starting place. I’m praying for this generation.
I understand the argument that students have financial limitations for clothing, but, how much dose it cost to pull off a bonnet, pull your pants above your crack, leave the house shoes in your house and go to class?
I agree with the new policy. I disagree that hair bonnets and durags etc are Black culture. Our culture is multifaceted and many do not wear these items outside of the home. That would be excluding half or more of our culture. I like the new standards.