TO: All Employees
FR: Commencement Logistics Committee
Plans for Commencement 2021 are well underway, and we thank each and every one of you for your patience during this most unusual year. As many of you know, graduation is a community celebration at Sonoma State, and this year's ceremonies will be held on May 15 for the 2020 graduates and May 22-23 for the 2021 graduates. Once again, we are requesting an “all hands on deck” approach as we have in past years. More than ever, we want the tradition to continue, and we look forward to working with everyone to ensure that our students have a very special day. Below are the expectations for MPP and staff participation:
Management (MPP) Employees
MPPs from all divisions (Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Administration and Finance, Green Music Center, and Advancement) are expected to work during Commencement. We are requesting that each MPP sign up for at least two shifts. Those MPPs who cannot participate must request an exception from their respective vice president.
Staff Employees
Some essential staff employees, such as those regularly assigned to work large events (including all GMC, Facilities, and Housekeeping staff), will be assigned to work during Commencement weekend unless directed otherwise. Essential employees that work commencement may be eligible for CTO. If you are unsure, please check with your appropriate administrator to determine if you have been assigned to work Commencement weekend. 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 non-essential staff for Commencement are considered voluntary and will not be included in hours worked for the calculation of overtime or CTO.
Faculty Employees
Faculty will be part of the platform party. Due to our current environment, regalia will not be available this year. You can expect to spend 1-2 hours for the ceremony as your assigned workday. The students love to see their faculty as they approach the stage.
Sign up using this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b094fa9a923abf94-staff1
Due to public health guidelines, meals will not be provided this year. We have adjusted the length of shifts to accommodate this. Please plan to bring your own refreshments, including a refillable water bottle.
The deadline to sign up for a Commencement shift is Monday, May 3, 2021.
If you are having trouble viewing the Commencement sign-up link and/or need assistance to sign up for a shift(s), please contact Kindra Kautz at kautz@sonoma.edu.
Thank you in advance for helping us make the 2020 and 2021 Commencements memorable for our graduates!