Dear UIS Colleagues,

UIS Commencement 2026 is rapidly approaching, and we’re looking for volunteers to help make this year’s commencement ceremonies memorable for our students. Ceremonies (divided by college) will be held to celebrate our graduates on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Bank of Springfield Center in downtown Springfield. As a volunteer, you’ll assist with activities like setup, helping graduates with their caps and gowns, directing guests, and generally being a friendly face. You’ll join fellow volunteer staff, alumni, and friends in ensuring rewarding ceremonies - and help graduates celebrate a milestone achievement.   

This year, there will be two  ceremonies. You can volunteer to assist with one or both:

• Ceremony #1: 12:30 p.m. - Graduates from the College of Health, Science and Technology AND the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences; volunteer report time 10:30 a.m.
• Ceremony #2: 5:30 p.m. - Graduates from the College of Business and Management AND the College of Public Affairs and Education; volunteer report time 3:30 p.m.

A brief orientation with fellow volunteers will be required prior to commencement. Information on time(s) and date(s) of orientation to follow. Please complete the 2026 Commencement Volunteer Registration Form to let us know if you will be volunteering for one or both ceremonies.  Those volunteering for both ceremonies will be served lunch.

Commencement day is always full of high spirits and thousands of happy faces and we hope you will be one of them! Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Thanks,

Rhyann Morris

Director of Admissions Processing and Commencement Volunteer Coordinator

rwarr02s@uis.edu