Each May, the echoing of the bagpipes across Bender Arena evokes fond memories for double Eagle Edythe Cook, CAS/BA ’02, SPA/MPA ’04.

The procession takes her back to her own commencement on a sweltering afternoon, with her parents in the audience from New Jersey and actress and AU alumna Goldie Hawn addressing the Class of 2002. Twenty-two years later, Cook hasn’t forgotten the pride or anticipation of that day.

“You work so hard, and then this is the next step. It’s something that you don’t think is ever going to come,” said Cook, associate director for administrative services at the Student Health Center.

Now, as a staff volunteer, Cook plays a small role in a monumental day for her fellow Eagles. Year over year, the magic of that moment keeps her coming back.

“It’s a really joyous time and people are so excited,” said Cook, who has lent a hand at the last 10 commencement ceremonies. “One of the reasons I like to volunteer is because I know how much work is put into it.”

Later this week, an estimated 3,000 graduates will join an alumni community 150,000 Eagles strong at AU’s 147th commencement, May 10–11. Behind the scenes, an army of faculty and staff volunteers like Cook pass out programs, line up graduates, and help family and friends navigate campus

“Our volunteers are super important because they allow the vision of AU’s community to shine through to everyone who comes to campus,” said Kristi Vanoy, director of special events. “Having them there really showcases [the work they do at AU] and helps to elevate the commencement experience for our graduates and guests.”

Gorky Cruz, director of the Center for Language Learning, volunteers at commencement because it gives him one more chance to see his students before they leave campus. Over four years, it has also helped him get to know other parts of the university beyond the Department of World Languages.

“I love people and I love to work with people,” Cruz said. “This is an opportunity to get out there and meet more of your colleagues who may not be from your school or department. It’s a lot of fun to get together for this.”

A few days out from the pomp and circumstance, help is still needed, particularly at the School of Communication and School of Education ceremony on Saturday, May 11.

“Great things come out of helping. Sometimes, you get more out of it than you really put into it,” said Cruz, who will lead in graduates during the procession for the fourth time. “Being able to partake in that joy and sense of community is important.”

Interested volunteers can sign up to help here.