Commencement 2025

Richard Bland College Campus • Free Photos Will Be Available by May 27th

2025 Commencement Speaker

Belle Wheelan, Ph.D., who currently serves as president of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), will be this year’s commencement speaker. RBC Student Assembly President Melia Grady and Phi Theta Kappa Vice President Ana Conner will serve as the student speakers. Read More

Commencement

RBC’s Commencement will be held on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, on the RBC’s historic campus. The ceremony marks the occasion at which all college and honorary degrees are formally conferred.

The President of the Richard Bland College presides over the official ceremonies. Not only is each candidate recognized by name during the ceremony, graduates also are 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

Watch Commencement Livestream

Friends and family members can tune in to all Commencement ceremonies via the RBC livestream, which will begin just prior to the ceremony start time at 6 p.m.

Livestream

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