Columbia Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons announced on Apr. 14 that employee volunteers are preparing to support commencement ceremonies in May, which will see over 1,400 students celebrate across three days, four schools, and nine events.
The large scale of the event requires collaboration from departments throughout the medical center. Volunteers play a key role in ensuring that guests have a positive experience during the celebrations.
More than 140 volunteers participate each year, with many returning annually to help guide visitors from arrival points such as the subway entrance through to their seats at ceremonies. Kathleen Crowley, vice president of environmental health and safety and adjunct assistant professor at Mailman School of Public Health, leads the subway greeting team alongside Joe Fernandez from CUIMC Facilities. “Some variation of ‘Subway greeter with KC’ is always one of the most requested roles on our volunteer form,” says CUIMC events specialist Emily Hines. She adds that Crowley “tenaciously works long hours outside all week in all weather conditions—except when she has to slip away to join the faculty procession in the Columbia Mailman ceremony.”
Crowley said her role allows her team to be “the first point of contact for graduates, families, and guests arriving on campus.” She said: “Being able to welcome them, offer assistance, and set a positive tone at the very beginning of their experience is incredibly rewarding… There is no second chance for a first impression.” Having volunteered for more than two decades during commencement week, Crowley said: “What stands out most are the moments when a simple interaction makes a difference—helping a family that is unsure where to go, assisting someone who is running late, or guiding a large group smoothly through a busy arrival point.”
Newer volunteers like Daniel Silveira also play an important part in these events. In his third year volunteering as secretary of medical services at Student Health on Haven—and previously serving as disability seating host and lobby greeter—Silveira values meeting people from across CUIMC. He said: “My favorite part of the job is helping people and making sure everyone has a memorable and exciting day… You will not only help others; you will grow as well. And always stay smiling!” Hines noted that nearly 40% of this year’s volunteer team are new or first-time participants.
As preparations continue for this year’s ceremonies, both veteran and new volunteers encourage more employees to get involved. Crowley said: “Commencement offers a unique opportunity to engage with the CUIMC community in a highly visible and meaningful way… It allows you to contribute to an important institutional milestone while collaborating with colleagues from across the university.” Her advice for fellow volunteers includes maintaining positivity: “Small actions… can have a significant impact on someone’s experience.”
Volunteer opportunities remain open for upcoming commencement ceremonies.
