Volunteers needed as UCalgary gets ready to celebrate spring convocation

Spring convocation at the University of Calgary is fast approaching, and preparations for the ceremonies are in full swing. But volunteers are needed to ensure the festivities run smoothly. The formal ceremonies will take place from May 30 to June 5 in the Jack Simpson Gymnasium. During the week, graduands from every faculty will take their momentous crossing of the stage, making this event one of the largest on-campus gatherings of the year.

"As spring convocation approaches, we're calling on the UCalgary community to step forward and join us in making convocation a special day for our soon-to-be graduates and their families and friends,” says Amanda Affonso, BA’00, OTUC’08, associate vice-president, Alumni, Community & Partnerships. “Convocation is more than a ceremony; it's a celebration of achievement, a reflection of our community's strength and resilience, and a testament to our shared commitment to learning and growth."

With an event of this magnitude, volunteers play a crucial part in its success. They assist in various roles, from guiding guests to their seats to ensuring the smooth flow of graduands during the procession. Their contributions are invaluable in creating a seamless experience for all attendees.

A valuable experience for alumni

"Convocation is a pivotal moment for the alumni community in that we are welcoming the newest members.” says Colleen Bangs, BA’03, OTUC’23, senior director of Alumni Engagement. 

In particular, Bangs says volunteering offers alumni a valuable opportunity to give back to their alma mater, reconnect with the university community, and play a meaningful role in celebrating the achievements of the next generation of graduates.

“Returning to campus as an alum to be part of that experience as a volunteer is an excellent opportunity to deepen engagement with the university and simultaneously get a generous dose of nostalgia watching the excitement of the grads and their supporters as they eagerly anticipate hearing their degree and name read aloud. It is my favourite of all of the volunteer opportunities that we offer,” says Bangs.

Get involved

In the spirit of community and camaraderie, the university invites students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members to register as volunteers. The opportunity not only allows individuals to actively participate in this significant milestone, but also provides a chance to gain a valuable and meaningful experience.

UCalgary employees or faculty members can sign up for a shift here.

If you are not a UCalgary employee (this includes students, alumni and community members), there are some great opportunities for you to help out, as well:

1. If you are interested in a ceremony support role such as hood-pinner or usher, sign up here.
2. If you are interested in supporting the Alumni Engagement team with degree framing or photo booth support, you can sign up here.

For anyone interested in supporting the Indigenous Graduation Celebration event taking place on Friday, June 7, sign up here.

Volunteers are the backbone of this event and their dedication will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the graduating class and their loved ones. 

“Let's come together as a UCalgary community and help make this a memorable event for our soon-to-be graduates,” Affonso says.