Senior Class Marshals are Syracuse University’s most committed and thoughtful students. They are distinguished individuals who exemplify the spirit of the senior class, embody One University, exhibit academic excellence, and have excelled during their time at Syracuse. Each year, two Syracuse University rising seniors will be selected to serve as the all-University student representatives for their graduating class. During their senior year, they will have unique opportunities to engage with various University stakeholders, help select their Commencement speaker, and discuss their student experience and offer constructive suggestions with senior administrators.
Complete the Class of 2025 Senior Class Marshal Application Complete the Class of 2025 Senior Class Marshal Nomination Form
Role and Expectations
- Marshals help recommend the Commencement speaker.
- Marshals are offered opportunities and strongly encouraged to engage in at least one event with each of the following:
- Alumni (through the Office of Alumni Engagement)
- Student Experience (includes involvement in student organization-sponsored events)
- Office of Special Events (major public and private events involving the participation of the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor, Provost and others)
- Marshals have the opportunity to meet personally with a senior University administrator near the end of their senior year to discuss their Syracuse University experience and offer insights and suggestions.
- Marshals lead their class during Commencement ceremonies.
Application Requirements and Process
- Only current Syracuse University juniors, graduating in May 2025, who are enrolled in undergraduate programs are eligible to apply. (Must be on campus during the entirety of their senior year.)
- All applicants must submit a complete application, an essay (maximum 600 words), an official Syracuse University transcript (available from the Office of the Registrar), and solicit recommendations from two nominators who are Syracuse University faculty or staff members.
- Only the official online application form, plus one additional document for the essay, and official transcript (obtained from the Registrar, scanned and attached), should be submitted by the applicant. Faculty/staff nominators must submit their recommendations independently online. Additional information will not be considered.
Selection Process
- Selection criteria will be based upon scholarship, academic honors, student organization involvement, campus and community service, exhibited school spirit and a written essay.
- The search committee, composed of Student Experience Division staff, will interview selected finalists in March 2024 (exact dates TBD).
Nominations
If you would like to nominate a student for Senior Class Marshal and understand the requirements and expectations as stated above, please submit the nomination form. Or, if a student has requested you submit a recommendation as part of their application, please complete the nomination form.
As a reminder, the Senior Class Marshals are different from the College Marshals, which are selected to represent each school and college.