Tuskegee University recently announced updates to its dress code policy and behavioral standards for students beginning this academic year.

The new dress code prohibits students from wearing bedroom shoes, bonnets and du-rags in classrooms and the cafeteria, according to its text.

“Revealing clothing” will also be banned in classrooms, dining areas and official university events such as Convocation.

In a letter to parents of incoming students, Tuskegee President Dr Mark A Brown, said students must keep their phones off in class unless otherwise allowed by their professor. He warned that the university is also tightening attendance rules in the institution’s push for accountability.

In a message to parents, Brown explained the policy builds on existing rules to promote professionalism at the HBCU, founded in 1881 and famous for veterinary medicine and engineering. Students now need business suits and professional shoes for career events, with faculty enforcing it in shared spaces alongside tighter attendance and cell phone limits. The changes come as Tuskegee welcomes its largest freshman class in 32 years under its first alum president since 2024, sparking divided views—some praise the push for self-respect and job readiness, while critics see it as clashing with cultural styles.

I see NO issue with this new dress code. We are trying to TEACH the youth just what to look forward to in the real world. Being a part of the WORKFORCE, requires one to abide by business profession attire. Why not start in school? This is a dress rehearsal for the real world, why not look the part!? If these students can’t muster enough strength to pull the bonnets and durags off for class, maybe they should try distance learning and stay cozy in their dorms with their bonnets on.