Radcliffe commencement organizers this week took the first step toward merging Harvard and Radcliffe commencement exercises. A referendum on the desirability of combining the traditionally separate ceremonies was included on an election ballot mailed to Radcliffe seniors to choose the senior class committee.

Every year the girls tell us that they want to hold the two commencements together. This year we felt that a referendum would serve as a mandate for the class committee to try." H. B. Dry '35, Radcliffe College Marshal, said.

Mrs. Dry said the results of the poll would be used to open discussions with Harvard-Radcliffe administrators on joint commencement exercises this year.

Last June. Radcliffe commencement exercises were held in Radcliffe Yard, and Harvard exercises were held a day later in Harvard Yard.