1: Dan Frierdich - Modernizing the Cap and Gown Experience

Dan Frierdich, a veteran commencement planner with over a decade of experience at St. Louis University and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, joins host Chase Rigby to discuss the transformation of cap and gown traditions. They dive into how universities can move beyond outdated processes to create a seamless, student-focused graduation experience. 

📝 Topics Discussed:

-The inefficiencies and hidden costs of traditional cap and gown systems.
-Why universities rely on bookstore distribution models—and how they’re evolving.
-The benefits of integrating regalia ordering into the student registration process.
-How personalization enhances the graduation experience for students and families.
-Why graduation is shifting from a formal tradition to a major marketing opportunity.

📌 Episode Highlights:

[00:01:19] Dan shares memories of his own graduation, including name mispronunciations.
[00:06:53] Comparing decentralized and centralized approaches to commencement planning.
[00:16:51] Why modern students expect a streamlined, e-commerce-like experience.
[00:22:35] Launching a new integration for hassle-free cap and gown ordering.
[00:25:56] Overcoming resistance to change and envisioning the future of graduations.

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This episode of The Liminal is brought to you by Tassel – transforming the way the world celebrates graduations. From AI-powered name pronunciation to seamless ticketing, stage displays, and post-event analytics, Tassel is your all-in-one platform for modern, inclusive commencements.

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