Pin Ceremony Signifies Higher Status 

Becoming a McDonogh upperclassman is a rite of passage, signified by the presentation of gold “McD” lapel pins at the annual Junior Pin Ceremony. The tradition grew out of a junior ring ceremony that originated in 1987. Juniors who ordered school rings received them in a ceremony that was followed by a dance. Within a few years, in an effort to be more inclusive, juniors who did not order rings were given pins to mark their status. Soon, the ceremony evolved into the presentation of McD pins only to every member of the junior class. The special occasion also included a dinner in which teachers served their students. While aspects of the juniors’ rite of passage have changed, the Junior Pin Ceremony continues to signify their status as upperclassmen and women.