Commencement Participation

Training and rehearsal attendance provide opportunities to get answers to all of your questions, and email invites sent by the commencement staffing coordinator serve as convenient reminders with dates, times and locations.

What about staff volunteer training?

Plan to attend a virtual information meeting as well as an in-person meeting prior to the ceremony. Commencement staff will assist and provide specific information closer to the rehearsal date.

When do I arrive on the day of commencement?

• Morning: If you are volunteering for the 10 a.m. ceremony, please arrive by 7 a.m.
• Afternoon: If you are volunteering for the 2 p.m. ceremony, please arrive by 11 a.m.

When do I assume my post?

• Morning: ceremony staff will assume their posts at 7:30 a.m.
• Afternoon: ceremony staff will assume their posts at 11:30 a.m. 

Commencement staff are entitled to a reasonable rest break.

If you need a break while on duty, please ask for assistance to cover your post. Ushers should notify your zone leader.

Keep in mind that you may not receive an opportunity to sit down for long periods while on duty or be able to view the ceremony.

• An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be on stage during the ceremony.
• The GGC Convocation Center is fully ADA-compliant.
• Accessible seating is available, and all levels of the Convocation Center can be reached by elevators.

General

• Familiarize yourself with the location of restrooms, first aid, emergency exits, program distribution points and water stations.
• Give lost and found items to the person at the lost and found counter.
• Return “STAFF” lanyards and 2-way radios (if applicable) to the check-in station when your duties are completed.
• Smile at your fellow commencement staffers, often, and remember to maintain a pleasant, enthusiastic attitude of helpfulness and concern at all times for graduates and their guests on their very special day.