Program marshals have the responsibility of representing their fellow graduates.  Because of this responsibility, it is essential that these individuals can be identified and therefore, they wear gold stoles during commencement.

Some departments, associations and groups recognize their students with colored cords or non-gold stoles. Those seeking approval to distribute cords or non-gold stoles to their students must do so by submitting a formal request to the Registrar in the Office of Records and Registration. The request is considered, the Registrar communicates a decision to the appropriate parties, and updates the master list of approved cords, stoles, and miscellaneous items worn at commencement.

Program marshals receive gold stoles from the Office of Records and Registration on commencement day.  Non-gold cords and stoles are provided by the department, association, or group that requested the recognition.