Frequently Asked Questions
What is a squire, and it is required that I have one?
It is tradition for each senior to select a graduation squire who will march with the senior and sit directly behind the graduate during Commencement. At the designated moment during the Commencement ceremony, the squire will ceremoniously place the Randolph College baccalaureate hood around the senior’s collar.
Although most seniors choose fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, grandparents, alumnae relatives, or siblings to act as their squire, some seniors choose a person who is not a relative but someone with whom the senior wants to share this very special occasion.
Please note that each senior is limited to one squire. Seniors may choose not to have a squire, in which case they will “hood” themselves.
What are the fees for my cap and gown?
All graduates (both bachelor’s and master’s) are charged a graduation fee of $200 in the term in which they are scheduled to graduate. The fee is used to partially offset costs associated with Commencement, including the graduation robe, cap, and tassel, printing of diplomas and programs, speaker travel and accommodations, etc. Button stoles are optional (see below).
Are button stoles required, and when would we wear them?
Button stoles are not required. They are an optional piece of regalia that are worn to display the buttons that many students collect over their years at Randolph. Button stoles may be purchased for $30 (exact cash or check) in the Office of the Dean of Students, and are worn throughout the year at the following events: Convocation, Pumpkin Parade, Founders’ Day, and Daisy Chain. Button stoles are not worn during the formal commencement ceremony in May.
Can I decorate my cap?
Caps must not be decorated with obscene language or images. Please do not decorate your robes. Caps that do not adhere to these guidelines will be exchanged for new caps, and a fee will be assessed.
When and how will I order graduation announcements?
Graduation announcements will be ordered in the spring semester after you return for classes in January. Seniors and Masters candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to order announcements. Information will also be posted on the Commencement website and mailed to home addresses.
Is it too late to order a class ring?
Class rings are typically ordered during junior year; however, it’s not too late to place an order. If you would like to place a new order, or need a ring resized, please contact Jostens directly at (800) 854-7464, or visit their website. You can also talk to the Jostens’ sales representative during the ring sale on campus in September.
When do residence halls close for seniors?
Residence halls will close for all graduates at 6 p.m. on Sunday evening following the commencement ceremony. No exceptions. Please prepare for this deadline by packing most of your belongings prior to the start of commencement weekend so that you are not rushed on Sunday.
Will my meal plan still work after exam week?
The last meal that your board plan will provide is the Saturday Brunch at the end of exam week. Should you choose to remain on campus the week leading up to commencement, you will be responsible for your own meals. For Cheatham Dining Hall and Skeller hours of operation, please click here.
How do I stay connected to Randolph after graduation?
We encourage you to stay in touch with Randolph College after you leave the Red Brick Wall. Please visit our alumnae and alumni page to learn more about how you can stay connected with us. We’d love to know what you’re doing, where you are, what what adventures you’re on!
