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Re: Hugs vs hand shakes at opening ceremony
The way Dean, Woodie and Don greeted the 2016 Dean's List Finalists irked my wife and I as well.
I'm not usually vocal around these topics, but when you greet 20 young professionals in a row, I believe a handshake is the baseline, acceptable way to convey appreciation and recognition.
That said, some students may have an overwhelming sense of jubilation, which prompts them to initiate some sort of less-than-professional (but still authentic) expression such as a hug. That is great!
The issue was, women got the default arms out for a hug from Dean, while men got the hand stretched out for a shake.
Also, as a YPP trained professional, I work to avoid "frontal hugging", especially with young women, and especially with young women I do not know. I would certainly not be the one to intiate the hug in front of many other mentors and students.
This is not your uncle hugging their niece. These are professionals congratulating young professionals on their accomplishments. It should be treated as such, and serve as a model to all the mentors and students watching the ceremony.
-Mike
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