Senior Speaker: Joel Edward Bolton

Joel Bolton '09, Senior Speaker

Joel Bolton graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Raised in Manassas, Virginia, Joel is the son of Edward and Renee Bolton. During his time at Randolph-Macon, Joel was actively engaged in the life of the College. He served as program director for the Residence Hall Association and senior class captain for Brothers 4 Change. Joel was also awarded the male senior leadership award which recognizes sustained leadership, good citizenship and leading positive change on behalf of others in the community. He was also the head tour guide for the Yellow Jacket student tour guide program in the college’s admissions office. Joel credits his study-abroad experiences with changing his life’s direction. During the 2009 January term, he traveled to Johannesburg and Cape Town South Africa. His passion for the people and culture of South Africa has prompted him to attend graduate school in either Cape Town or Johannesburg and to further his studies in social psychology.

In his speech during commencement, Joel talked about the close connections he made at R-MC and also shared experiences and stories of growth while a student. When asked about his years at R-MC, Joel says, “I look back with a smile at my achievements here, my involvement and my chances to show that I love Randolph-Macon.”

The full text of Joel Bolton's remarks is available.