American University’s events staff is putting out a call for enthusiastic volunteers to help bring the 151st commencement to life. And as a “thank you,” those who lend a hand to help celebrate about 2,700 members of the Class of 2026 can trade a few hours of “pomp and circumstance” for some well-deserved downtime. 

From helping friends and families navigate campus to lining up graduates, staff members who volunteer for at least two of the four Saturday commencement ceremonies on May 9 and 16 qualify for time off. (Note: All participants must receive prior approval from their supervisor to volunteer.)

Here’s how it works: 

• Exempt staff (salaried) who volunteer for a minimum of two ceremonies on May 9 or one ceremony on May 9 and the commencement on May 16 will receive an additional day off to use between July 1, 2026,­ and June 30, 2027. 
• Non-exempt staff (hourly) who volunteer at commencement will be paid for their time—however, they must work with their supervisors to ensure they don’t exceed their weekly hours. 

Qualifying commencement ceremonies: 

• School of Communication and School of Education, 9 a.m., May 9
• School of International Service, 2 p.m., May 9
• School of Public Affairs, 6 p.m., May 9
• Washington College of Law, 10 a.m., May 16

Time off isn’t the only benefit of volunteering, however, said Lindsay Studer, assistant director of special events. 

“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of commencement,” she said. “The ceremony is also a profound full-circle moment for many staff. After supporting and mentoring the Class of 2026 since their very first day on campus, staff now have the privilege of witnessing those final steps across the stage.”  

This year will mark Robert Badura's fourth time volunteering for commencement. The assistant director of student and young alumni engagement for Alumni Relations enjoys being a line-up captain, helping graduates prepare to walk across the stage.

“It’s a great way to give back to the students at a really special time in their lives,” Badura said. “I would encourage anyone who has the time to volunteer and see the magic of commencement.”

Sign up here to volunteer.