Commencement 2025

Richard Bland College

2025 COMMENCEMENT SPEAKERS

DR. BELLE WHEELAN

Dr. Belle Wheelan’s speech highlights the power of education, perseverance, and giving back to the community. She encourages graduates to keep learning, embrace challenges, and support others along their journey. TAP TO VIEW

ANA CONNER

Ana Conner’s speech at RBC focused on the importance of resilience and embracing challenges through gratitude. She encouraged her fellow graduates to view obstacles as opportunities for growth. TAP TO VIEW

MELIA GRADY

Melia Grady, a standout student at Richard Bland College, served as the commencement student speaker. She inspired graduates with a heartfelt message about resilience, growth, and shared achievements. TAP TO View

FREE PHOTOS

RBC is offering free professional photos from the ceremony for graduates and their families. It’s our way of saying congratulations and helping you capture the joy, pride, and unforgettable moments of this special day-rain or shine. TAP TO PHOTOS

Commencement

RBC’s Commencement was held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, on the RBC’s historic campus. The ceremony marked the occasion at which all college and honorary degrees were formally conferred.

The President of the Richard Bland College presided over the official ceremonies. Not only was each candidate recognized by name during the ceremony, graduates also were personally congratulated for their accomplishment by the President and Chief Academic Officer of the College. Click below to view or download the Commencement program.

Program

Congratulations on your graduation from Richard Bland College. Below are answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I order my commencement photo?
- RBC Creative Services is the official photographer of the 2025 Ceremony. Photos can be downloaded for free at the link below within 30 days of the ceremony.
When do I arrive at RBC?
- Graduating students must be on site and checked in with staff by 4:00 pm.
  
  Richard Bland College – Outside New Academic Innovation Center
  11301 Johnson Rd, VA 23805
Where do I go once I arrive at RBC?
- RBC staff will direct graduates to the pre-commencement holding area.
Where is the pre-commencement holding area?
- This area is in the Parsons Café located across from Statesman Hall.
Where do I park at RBC?
- Parking will be available on campus for free, right off of Johnson’s Road. Staff will direct you to the closest space. Handicapped parking will also be available in designated areas next to the building.
  
  Richard Bland College
  11301 Johnson Rd, VA 23805
Where do my family and friends park?
- Please see above. There are no special parking areas for family and guests.
Where will I connect with my family after the ceremony?
- In and around the outdoor Academic Innovation Center area to connect with family. At the end of the ceremony, the faculty and student recessional march flows away from the building to that area.
How many tickets do I get?
- No ticket is required for entrance. There are plenty of seats available for family and friends.
How do I receive my diploma?
- After crossing the stage, you will receive a diploma cover. Your actual diploma will be mailed to your permanent home address in 60 to 90 days.
Is there an accessible viewing area for individuals with disabilities or older adults?
- Limited space/seating is available on the floor for handicapped or elderly family and friends needing floor space.
Can I bring flowers and balloons?
- Yes, you can bring flowers. However, balloons are not allowed.
How do I order my cap and gown and what is the deadline?
- Graduates
  Regalia sets (cap, gown, hood, tassel) will also be for sale in The Grove prior to Commencement. Payment for all orders is due at time of pick up. Graduates will be notified via RBC email when orders arrive. Total price for Associate Degree regalia set (cap, gown, hood, tassel) is $65. Rentals are unavailable for graduates. Note: Payment due by March 28th. Caps & Gowns are available for pickup in the Grove Market Campus Store – date coming soon.
  
  Faculty
  Faculty will have the option to rent regalia. Information to follow in RBC email.
  
  The Grove Market
  Jessica Mahoney
  Retail Manager
  The Grove Market
  jmahoney@rbc.edu
  804-862-6100, ext. 6500
  campusstore@rbc.edu