Dear colleagues,
We are at present, considering changing the manner in which we arrange for
our graduands to be called to the stage for presentation at the award
ceremony. Currently, we have a carbon-copied list of expected graduands at
a registration area, the graduand presents him/herself and their name is
ticked on the list. Their seat number is written on a card, which they take
with them into the hall and the list is split into one for the caller
(usually the Head of School or Dean of Faculty) and another for the marshal
ordering them as they walk onto the stage. We have seating stewards who
check that the graduand has a seat card. These steating stewards also have
a copy of the list but it is not as up to date as the main carbon copied
list.

I'd be grateful if those involved with award ceremonies would take a moment
to answer the following and get back to me. From these questions, I should
be able to identify those that I would like to follow up.

If there is already a summary of different practices then maybe someone
could point me in the right direction. Thanks in advance for all your
replies, which can come direct to me if you would prefer. I am happy to
provide a summary via this list.

a) How many graduands attend each of your ceremonies and how many
ceremonies do you have?
b) How do you know that the graduand has arrived?
c) How do you notify the caller that the graduand has NOT arrived?
d) Do you have staff checking that the graduands are sitting in the
correct place?
e) Do you have an orator to call your graduands at your award
ceremonies or do you use heads of school etc.?
f) How do you deal with late arrivals?

If you've answered the questions and feel that you haven't described your
practices, then please feel free to do so!

Julie Lehane
Assistant Registrar (Academic Awards)
University of Brighton, Cockcroft Building,
Lewes Road, BRIGHTON, BN2 4GJ
Tel: +44 (0) 1273 642823
Fax: +44 (0) 1273 642922
E-mail: [log in to unmask]