Instructions for Marshals
Prior to the ceremony
- Please arrive at the academic robing room 30 minutes prior to the starting time of the ceremony where you will be provided with a copy of the stage plan and procession order.
- 10 minutes prior to the ceremony, assemble staff into correct procession order. Be sure to identify and instruct the leader of each row.
Leading the Academic Procession
- After the graduands have entered the hall and the audience is standing for the academic procession, the processional music will begin. The Marshal will then lead the academic procession into the hall and down the centre aisle.
- At the bottom of the centre steps the Marshal will stop and turn to face the procession and spread their arms out to the side, directing the procession to split and go to the side steps, where they will ascend the stage and stand in front of their seats.
- When the Marshal sees the leader of the front row, the Marshal will turn and lead the front row up the centre steps.
- The Marshal then walks to their seat behind the Chancellor's Chair, and remains standing until the Chancellor/Deputy Chancellor invites the assembly to be seated.
During the ceremony
The Marshal will also assist the Mace Bearer in passing the testamurs to the Chancellor/Deputy Chancellor. You may wish to discuss this process with the Mace Bearer prior to the ceremony.
At the end of the ceremony
The academic procession leaves the stage in the reverse order to that of entry. The Marshal should join the procession at a logical point after the last person from the second row.
Further information
If you have any other questions concerning your participation in an academic procession for a graduation ceremony, please contact:
Ceremonies and Protocol
Ph: 9479 2579
Email: ceremonies@latrobe.edu.au