NOTE: This web page is archived for the Class of 2003. To see the Commencement site for this year's class, click here.

Volunteers Needed at Undergraduate Commencement

Volunteer marshals, aides, and ushers are needed for the 2003 Undergraduate Commencement on Sunday, May 25. We promise you an enjoyable experience, an opportunity to display your pride in UMass, and a "free" lunch. Returning veterans and new volunteers are encouraged to participate.

The changes we made in the ceremony last year resulted in one of the finest and enjoyable ceremonies in recent history. We depend on volunteers to help manage approximately 4,000 graduates and approximately 22,000 guests. We want the ceremony to be one with pageantry and pride for the graduates. Our veteran volunteers tell us participating in commencement is an enormously satisfying and joyous opportunity. In order to be successful, we will need about 60 marshals, 50 aides, and 40 ushers.

Marshals assist by organizing graduates according to their appropriate school or college for the student processional, escorting graduates on to the field, and serving as field monitors. Aides greet guests as they enter the perimeter, distribute programs, and help guests locate seating and other services. Ushers assist guest in the stands of the stadium with seating, directions, and program information.

There will be an orientation for volunteers on Thursday, May 15 at 10:00 a.m. in Mahar Auditorium. A volunteer rehearsal is scheduled for Friday, May 23 at 10:00 a.m. at the stadium. On the day of commencement, Sunday, May 25, volunteers should be at the stadium no later than 8:30 a.m. Following the commencement ceremony, at 12:00 noon volunteers will be provided a complimentary thank you luncheon.

Call 577-1101 or email for more information or register online.