WVSU Addresses Viral Graduation Shoe Controversy
DRESS CODE ISSUE – A student from West Visayas State University (WVSU) went viral after sharing her heartbreaking experience during what should have been a joyful graduation. Instead of celebrating, the day turned emotional when she was repeatedly called out because of her shoes.
In a Facebook post that quickly caught attention, the graduate, identified as Cybelle, shared how her black closed shoes — which she had worked hard to buy with her own earnings from side jobs — didn’t meet the university’s strict dress code. The problem was that her shoes had a strap, which, according to the university, did not comply with the required “plain black closed shoes” for the ceremony. Cybelle expressed her frustration and sadness, saying she never expected that the shoes she had worked so hard to afford would end up ruining her graduation.
She explained how a faculty member and a marshal told her that her shoes were not allowed. Even after she removed the strap, she was still denied entry. When she tried to enter through another gate, a security guard stopped her again. She was eventually allowed inside, but by that time, her mother was no longer permitted to enter, as they were considered late.
What made the situation even more disheartening was that Cybelle noticed other students wearing shoes with minor designs or straps were allowed to join the ceremony without any issues. Later, as she was lining up to receive her diploma, she was confronted once again about her shoes. With no other choice, she borrowed shoes from a classmate just so she could walk across the stage. Although she completed the ceremony, the joy of her graduation day was already gone.
Cybelle’s story touched many people, quickly spreading across social media and drawing widespread support and calls for more compassionate policies. In response, WVSU released a statement saying they are aware of the concerns, are looking into the situation, and will review their policies with fairness and compassion.
“We are aware of the concerns raised online regarding a student’s graduation day experience. We deeply value our students’ voices and are currently looking into the matter. We thank everyone for their patience as we review our policies with compassion and fairness in mind,” WVSU stated.
Related Post: Graduate Denied Entry Due to Non-Compliant Shoes on Graduation Day