Commencement 2026 is May 7–8, and we are looking for staff marshals, also known as volunteers, to help celebrate our graduates and their families. Those who sign up to be a staff marshal can select positions across three events: Graduates Day at Memorial Gym or the Commencement Celebration at the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center Indoor Practice Facility on Thursday, May 7, and undergraduate Commencement at FirstBank Stadium on Friday, May 8. Staff marshals play a vital role in one of the university’s largest and most prestigious and meaningful events.
This year, all opportunities and registrations will be available through University Ceremonies and Events GetConnected. Through GetConnected, you can also track your volunteer impact at VU events, with benefits and rewards rolling out over the next year for top contributors. If you are interested in external volunteer opportunities in the Nashville community, visit vu.edu/getconnected.
Sign up to be a staff marshal>>
A hybrid training session is scheduled for 2–3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29, in the Multipurpose Room on the first floor of Carmichael College.
Volunteer opportunities include handing out materials to graduates, assisting with graduate lineup, serving as a greeter, distributing fans and more.
Staff marshals for Commencement will receive:
- Meals, snacks and drinks
- Volunteer appreciation gifts, including a Vanderbilt polo and specialty item
- Networking opportunities
For questions regarding staff marshal opportunities, please email commencement@vanderbilt.edu.
