Barclay DuPriest, who has served for over 40 years as the manager of Randolph-Macon’s campus store, has announced her plans to retire from her full-time role in 2026. Far beyond her official duties, DuPriest is widely admired as a pillar of school spirit and the embodiment of Randolph-Macon’s ethos. 

“I am so grateful that each of you was and is part of my life. To be able to watch each of you grow, learn, and mature during your four years at RMC was a special gift to me,” she said in a recorded statement, addressing the students and alumni that she has adopted as her “children” over the years.

DuPriest earned her bachelor’s degree from what was then Randolph-Macon Women’s College in Lynchburg, Va., then taught elementary school for eight years at nearby Hanover Academy before taking charge of the campus store in June of 1985. In that time, through shrewd merchandising, she transformed what was primarily a bookstore into a fully stocked campus store that serves as a destination for customers.

In truth, many visitors were coming simply to see the woman who’s mostly known simply as Barclay. Her impact on the RMC community is immeasurable. She cares deeply for every student who walks through Brock Commons and is the loudest cheerleader in celebrating their victories. Her selfless compassion and legendary support, in ways both small and large, has fostered connections across generations of Yellow Jackets, many of whom keep in touch well after graduation.

“To watch you move into adulthood and use your RMC-gained knowledge, skills, and compassion for your fellow man, to make this world a better place, that never ceased to make me proud,” Barclay reflected.

“Visitors to Randolph-Macon may wonder how a campus store manager became THE celebrity of the College, but all one needs to do is spend five minutes around Barclay, and it all makes sense. She epitomizes the Randolph-Macon spirit,” said Dr. Michael E. Hill, Randolph-Macon’s president. “Her personal impact on the lives of our students, faculty, and staff—and in my short time, on me!—is the kind of thing that makes this institution such a special place. We look forward to still having her around campus as she shifts her full-time duties to simply being RMC’s number one fan.”

Barclay and her husband Rob ’69 are ardent supporters of athletics and arts and regularly attend events on campus. A true team player, she relishes her role in the efforts of the Admissions and Advancement offices, speaking with prospective new students and parents and keeping alumni connected with the College.

“I’ve been told that after my retirement later this spring, I’ll be welcomed on campus even if I’m not an employee any longer. Well, I certainly plan on abusing this privilege!” Barclay declared. “The best part of Randolph-Macon has always been, and will always be, you. And as long as I can still see you every once in a while, my life will be full.”

Share your well wishes and favorite Barclay memories here!