What the Commencement Marshal Does

Appointed by the chancellor, the marshal helps direct the commencement ceremony and represents the faculty. The marshal leads the procession into the stadium, carrying the mace to signal the strength of the university and highlight the significance of their role.

The marshal plays a leading role in making sure commencement runs smoothly. Before the ceremony, the marshal collaborates with a committee to plan the big celebration and the individual recognition ceremonies. 

On the day of the commencement ceremony, the marshal is like the ceremony’s narrator—a revered role among the CU Boulder community.

Marsha Bud Coleman holding the mace and leading the procession

Commencement Marshal Bud Coleman leading the procession through Norlin Quad.