TO: All employees
FR: University Personnel
The message that was sent yesterday with information about Commencement staffing was meant to also include information about the format of this year’s Commencement ceremonies.
As we continue to follow the guidelines set forth by the County and State, we have begun planning to host a traditional celebration in person at the Green Music Center (GMC). A recent survey of both the 2022 graduates and the faculty showed that both groups preferred a traditional Commencement ceremony format held at the GMC.
Below is an overview of the 2022 Commencement weekend schedule
Commencement schedule. You will find a detailed list of the majors for each ceremony online.
Saturday, May 21, 2022
9 a.m. – School of Business and Economics
1 p.m. – School of Science and Technology
5 p.m. – School of Arts and Humanities
Sunday, May 22, 2022
9 a.m. – School of Education
1 p.m. – School of Social Sciences A
5 p.m. – School of Social Sciences B
And as stated in the previous email, Commencement 2022, which will take place May 21 and May 22, and is an “all hands on deck” community celebration at Sonoma State University. That custom continues this year, and we look forward to working with everyone once again this year to ensure 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 University Advancement) are expected to work during Commencement. 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 Facilities and Housekeeping staff), will be assigned to work during Commencement weekend unless directed otherwise. These staff are considered an essential part of the key functions for commencement and will be granted CTO by prior arrangement. 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 as such will not be included in hours worked for the calculation of overtime or CTO.
Faculty Employees
Faculty will be part of the platform party on stage. Regalia will be available again this year. You can expect to spend 2-3 hours for the ceremony as your assigned work day. The students love to see their faculty as they cross the stage and meet with faculty afterward to introduce family and friends. Information about the platform party will soon be posted on the Commencement website.
More information on how to sign up to work during Commencement Weekend will be sent out in the coming weeks.
If you have any questions regarding Commencement, please don’t hesitate to contact the Advancement Office at 707-664-3447 or visit the Commencement website. Thank you again for helping make 2022 the best Commencement ever!