Commencement Staffing and Signups

Tuesday, March 3, 2026, 10:54am

TO: All Employees
FR: 2026 Commencement Logistics Committee

Plans for Commencement 2026, which will take place the weekend of May 23 and 24, are well underway, and as many of you know, graduation is an “all hands on deck” community celebration at Sonoma State University. That custom continues this year, and we look forward to working together as a team to ensure our students have a very special day. Please note that Commencement does fall over Memorial Day weekend this year. Below are the expectations for MPP, staff, and faculty participation, along with information about signing up for Commencement shifts.

Management (MPP) Employees

MPPs from all divisions (Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Administration and Finance, Green Music Center, Strategic Enrollment, and Advancement) are expected to work during Commencement. Those MPPs who cannot participate must request an exception from their respective vice president. Exception approval can be provided to Nicole Hendry at [email protected]. MPPs are expected to work a minimum of eight hours. Please see the link to sign up for Commencement shifts. The deadline for MPPs to sign up for a Commencement shift is April 24, 2026.

Staff Employees

Some essential staff employees, such as those regularly assigned to work large events (including Facilities staff), will be assigned to work during Commencement unless directed otherwise. These staff members are considered an essential part of the key functions for Commencement and may be granted overtime in the form of CTO by prior arrangement. If you are unsure, please check with your appropriate administrator to determine if you have been assigned to work Commencement. For all other staff, there is no requirement to work at Commencement. Your participation is completely voluntary and extremely appreciated! Please note that the hours worked by extra support staff for Commencement are considered voluntary and as such will not be included in hours worked for the calculation of overtime or CTO. Staff may sign up for a Commencement shift using this link.

Faculty Employees

Faculty will be part of the platform party on stage. Regalia will be available again this year. You can expect to spend two to three hours for the ceremony as your assigned workday. The students love to see their faculty as they cross the stage and to introduce family and friends to faculty afterward. Platform party information can be found on the Commencement website.

If you are having trouble viewing the Commencement sign-up list or need assistance signing up for a shift(s), please contact Nicole Hendry at [email protected].

The Commencement 2026 Logistics Committee thanks you in advance for helping us make 2026 the best Commencement ever!