Volunteer Information

Volunteer Shift Dates and Times

• PhD Ceremony – Friday, May 28th, 2027, from 4pm to 8pm
• Commencement Ceremony (1) - Saturday, May 29th, 2027, from 7am to 12pm
• Commencement Ceremony (2) - Saturday, May 29th, 2027, from 11:30am to 4:30pm

Thank you for volunteering to help at either of the two (2) University Commencement Ceremonies and/or the PhD event during the May 2026 Commencement Weekend. We cannot support our students and their guests without your help! We have a variety of roles to fill at either 1, 2, or 3 events. Whether you prefer to walk, sit, or to be indoors or out, we’re happy to help find an enjoyable role perfect for you.

Volunteer Training

1. Zoom Training: All volunteers for the 2026 University Commencement Ceremonies and/or PhD event are expected to attend a zoom training session on Tuesday, May 25th at 3:00 pm.

• A zoom link will be sent a few days before the meeting.
• It will be recorded for viewing after, for those unable to attend.
• Time spent in the training meeting which cuts across scheduled work hours should be considered time worked and recorded in Workday as such.

2. Crowd Management Training: To help us stay compliant with the NYS Fire Code and ensure maximum safety for our guests, please complete the Crowd Management Training (EHS 5340) in Workday.

Volunteer Important Information

What to Wear

• We are providing a new, red mesh, event staff vest for all to wear. There will be all sizes available to add an extra layer underneath if weather is cool. The vest has pockets for cells and keys.  You may wear dark colored slacks, jeans, or skirt. 
• Plan to wear comfortable shoes and clean tennis shoes are fine.
• Name tag/button provided at check-in.
• Be prepared for possibly spending several hours in the sun or steady rain. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, poncho, or jacket. 
• There won’t be safe storage for personal items at the Band Building, but you may wear a small, clear backpack or fanny pack.
• Masks available for those who wish to wear them.

Parking

Campus Roads will close at 6:30 am. The following roads will be closed: 

• Campus Road from College Ave. to Wing Drive, 
• Hoy Rd from Campus Rd. to the garage entrance, 
• Garden between Campus and Tower Rd.
• Feeney Way from Campus Rd. to University Ave.

New Parking Options for 2027!! A pink permit will be sent to you from the Commencement Office. You are able to park in any of the following lots: 

• Central Heating Plant Lot on Rt. 366/Dryden Rd
• Humphreys Service Building Lot on Rt. 366/Dryden Rd.
• Oxley Lot on Rt. 366/Dryden Rd. (PM shift)
• B Lot and lots surrounding the Vet school.
  • Buses will begin to shuttle from B Lot to Crescent Lot at 7:00 am. 

Countdown to the Event