A Call for Commencement Ambassadors
Earlier this week, William D. Brady, vice chancellor and chief human resources officer, put out a call seeking staff to serve as commencement ambassador volunteers. This call comes in light of the recent announcement that graduating seniors will now have the opportunity to have two guests each at their ceremonies, increasing the volume of overall attendance.
That message is as follows:
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Dear Colleague, On Friday, May 14, the university will hold its 151st Undergraduate Commencement and I am writing today to invite you to participate as a Commencement Ambassador. This year, to honor our students, while also respecting ongoing public health and safety concerns, our celebration will consist of four smaller and shorter ceremonies held in McGuirk Alumni Stadium at 9 a.m., Noon, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Our accomplished graduate students will also be celebrating their graduation on the afternoon of Thursday, May 13. Planning for commencement has been underway for months, and in compliance with state and federal public health guidelines, students were told participation would be limited to graduates without guests. Given Governor Baker’s recent announcement that effective Monday, May 10, large venues, including outdoor stadiums, will be permitted to increase capacity to 25%, the university is pleased to now provide each graduating senior the opportunity to have two guests at their graduation. With this increase in expected attendance, Commencement Ambassadors are now needed at the ceremonies to answer questions, point guests in the right direction, and help maintain an enjoyable atmosphere for the families and friends of the graduates. Throughout the ceremonies, health and safety protocols will be closely followed, including observing social distancing as well as the state requirement that masks be worn at commencements. Please note, staff members who volunteer to be Commencement Ambassadors will be entitled to a higher hourly rate or comp time for the time spent as an Ambassador, pursuant to the terms of their collective bargaining agreement. Staff members should confirm with their supervisors their ability to step away from their normal duties to serve as Commencement Ambassadors. I hope you will consider joining us as we celebrate the Class of 2021. To participate, simply complete this sign-up form and you will be contacted with additional information. If you have questions, please call External Relations and University Events at 413/577-1101 or email commencement@umass.edu. Sincerely, William D. Brady |