Staff Volunteers Make Commencment Weekend Magical

During Commencement weekend, the spotlight belongs to the graduates. But the tone of the celebration is often set by the staff in blue volunteer badges, who are already in place before the doors open.

For nearly two decades, Human Resources Talent Development Manager Kellie Fuller has been one of them. She gravitates toward the high-traffic posts, where the work is equal parts choreography and reassurance. From her vantage point, she watches pride ripple across rows of families as students cross the stage, a scene that leaves her “with such a full heart,” the kind of day, she says, that validates her career in higher education.

Strategic Procurement and Systems Analyst Scherley Jean-Baptiste first volunteered after hearing Soledad O’Brien’s Commencement address to the Class of 2019. The message stayed with her because it spoke to “the purpose and value of the industry I work in.” She returned the following year and has continued since, committed to helping create a celebration worthy of that sense of purpose for students and families.

For Amanda Warren, Speech@Emerson Associate Director of Program & Student Support, volunteering offers something both grounding and communal. As a remote staff member, she values the chance to be physically present for the milestone. Over the years, she has been struck by how “amazingly proud” families are, and by how deeply that pride shapes the atmosphere in the theatre.

Together, these volunteers remind us that the celebration works because someone is always there to make it work. To Fuller, Jean-Baptiste, Warren, and every staff member who comes forward each year to help, thank you.

This year, all six Commencement and Hooding ceremonies will take place closer to campus at the Wang Theatre on Friday, May 8, 2026, and Saturday, May 9, 2026. Staff can sign up on the Commencement webpage for faculty and staff (Duo login required). For more information, visit the Commencement webpages or contact commencement@emerson.edu.