The Barnard Commencement Committee is seeking applicants to be Senior Marshals
What's a Senior Marshal?
It could be you.
Apply OR nominate a senior to be a Senior Marshal
Deadline: 4/10/2026, 9am
Decisions by May 1
WHAT IS A SENIOR MARSHAL?
It is a contribution to the college community and an honor!
Senior Marshals are graduates honored at Commencement for their leadership at Barnard with a ceremonial role, a special aiguillette on their gown, front row seating, and as the first students called up to the stage. The Senior Marshals' main responsibilities are to facilitate the smooth running of the Commencement procession and related activities, and to attend Baccalaureate. Candidates should be, in one or more ways, student leaders who have made exemplary contributions to the campus community.
SENIOR MARSHALS’ RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Attend required training session (to be scheduled during the week of May 4th)
- Attend and assist with Commencement info sessions on May 14 and/or 15 (dates and times to be confirmed)
- Attend Baccalaureate Service on Sunday, May 17, at 9am, in St. Paul's Chapel at Columbia
- Attend the Barnard commencement ceremony on Tuesday, May 19 (availability required beginning at approximately 2:30pm, prior to the Commencement ceremonies)
- Arrive early
- Assist with organizing one assigned row in the lineup area, ensuring graduates are in correct alphabetical order at Barnard Commencement
- Lead your assigned row into the ceremony, confirm graduates are seated in their designated seats, and then proceed to the Senior Marshal seating section at Barnard Commencement
- Help organize fellow graduates for class photo on Barnard’s campus prior to Columbia University Commencement on Wednesday, May 20 (afternoon time TBA)
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
To be eligible for consideration and to remain in the role if selected, applicants must:
- Be Barnard seniors participating in May 2026 Commencement and
- Be and remain in good standing (academic and disciplinary) through Commencement
A GOOD SENIOR MARSHAL:
- Has campus leadership experience
- Has the respect of peers
- Is organized and is able to be calm and solution-focused
HOW CAN I APPLY OR NOMINATE A BARNARD SENIOR:
Submit this google form no later than 9am on April 10, 2026.
