Spring Commencement volunteer Cecelia Nash thought the family from China wanted her in their photo because they enjoyed her company.
But it was her bright yellow windbreaker with the blue block “M” that really impressed them.
To learn more or to volunteer, email scvolunteers@umich.edu or call Kristen Jensen at 734-647-3801.
“They said, ‘We need to let people know we were here,'” recalled Nash, assistant to the chief administrator in the Office of the President. She is returning to volunteer at commencement for a sixth year on April 30.
Volunteers are needed to pass out programs, answer questions and more, to help make 2016 Spring Commencement a special memory for graduates and guests.
“Our goal is to have nearly 100 volunteers. They are crucial to the success of this event because our office strives to create the best guest experience for roughly 40,000 graduates and their families who are in attendance that day,” says Krystle Bednark, operations specialist with the Office of University and Development Events.
Volunteers receive a T-shirt to wear to the ceremony and a parking pass, along with a concession voucher for a food item and beverage. They also will be able to see and hear the commencement addresses. This year’s speaker is Michael Bloomberg, internationally known business leader and former New York City mayor.
“It’s an exciting time for the university because parents, family and friends are in a happy mood. Everyone is proud of their graduates. I like being able to welcome them and greet them. They’re here from all over the world and sometimes it’s their first time in Ann Arbor,” Nash says.
As a volunteer, Nash has helped several times with relaying transportation information to those who arrive at nearby hotels. She’s used to hearing stories about graduates from excited visiting families.
“If it’s raining just stay positive, stay upbeat. You want their experience to be enjoyable from beginning to end,” Nash says. “I’m just happy to volunteer and happy to represent the university.”
Most volunteer shifts are from 7:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Michigan Stadium. Volunteers are entered in a drawing to win one of several prizes — four tickets each to a 2016 U-M home football game — or one of 20 $25 gift cards to Ann Arbor businesses.
Other volunteer tasks include helping handicapped or limited-mobility guests to their seats and educating guests as they dispose waste into landfill, recycling or compost bins at eco-friendly waste stations.
Candice Catanzarite
I would love to volunteer, how do I sign up ??