August 2025 Edition

Message from the President

Claudia Davila
President, NAACO Board of Directors
Director, Commencement and Ceremonies- Presidential Events and University Ceremonies, The University of Arizona

Dear NAACO Colleagues,

Passing the Gavel As we prepare for a new academic year, I hope you’ve found time to recharge after another extraordinary—and often intense—ceremony season. Your work represents far more than logistics and planning; you shape some of the most powerful and memorable moments in higher education. Through your dedication, you celebrate achievement, affirm identity, and elevate each graduate’s personal journey. Thank you for continuing to create inclusive, joyful spaces where every step across the stage holds meaning.

I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to NAACO this year—our dedicated volunteers, chairs, committee members, regional leads, sponsors, alumni, NAACO HQ team, and board members. Your time, energy, and steadfast commitment have left a meaningful and lasting impact on our association and its mission. As we look ahead to the next phase of NAACO’s evolution, your contributions continue to guide our path forward with strength, purpose, and a shared sense of community.

At our July board meeting in Boston, MA—our future host city for the 2026 Annual Conference—I had the honor of passing the gavel to Marcus Jones II, who will officially begin his term as President on August 1. I’m also deeply grateful to Gabrielle Martinez and Jim Vitagliano for their visionary leadership and unwavering dedication. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in steering NAACO through another dynamic year of growth, innovation, and impact.
Together, we’ve accomplished so much:

Record-breaking participation at the Long Beach conference, with over 300 attendees and 65 sponsors
Expanded professional development, including a reimagined Certificate Program and revitalized regional meetings
Growing membership, now at 299 institutions, reflecting our expanding reach and engagement
Strong financial standing, underscoring our commitment to long-term sustainability and responsible stewardship

Looking ahead, we’re excited to gather in Boston, February 23–25, 2026, for what promises to be an inspiring and memorable Annual Conference. The Call for Proposals will be opening soon, and we encourage you to share your insights, innovations, and lessons learned.

Don’t forget to join us for the Fall Commencement Showcase on November 12, and consider hosting or attending a regional meeting—NAACO Headquarters is here to support your involvement every step of the way.

As I move into the role of Immediate Past President, I want to extend my deepest appreciation—for your trust, your collaboration, and your unwavering commitment to this vibrant community. It has been an honor to serve alongside you, and I look forward to supporting NAACO’s continued growth in the months ahead. Together, we are shaping the future of academic ceremonies—one moment, one milestone at a time.

With gratitude,

Claudia Y. Dávila

SAVE THE DATE

Rethinking Hooding Logistics: Challenges and Solutions for a Smoother Graduation Ceremony

James Vitagliano
Past-President, NAACO Board of Directors
Associate Dean of Enrollment Services/Registrar, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA

For colleges and universities, commencement represents the culmination of years of hard work and academic achievement. For graduate-level students, the act of being hooded during the ceremony is a powerful, symbolic moment that signifies the transition from student to scholar. Yet, behind this cherished tradition often lies a complex web of logistical challenges that can disrupt the flow of the event, cause delays, and compromise the dignity of the occasion.

The Struggles of Hooding Logistics

While the symbolism of hooding is meaningful, the practice itself is physically awkward and operationally tricky, especially during large ceremonies. Common logistical challenges include:

Time Delays: Hooding takes significantly longer than handing out diplomas. Each student must pause while a faculty member carefully places the hood, which can bottleneck the procession.
Inconsistent Technique: Depending on who is doing the hooding—faculty advisors, deans, or volunteers—the technique can vary widely. This sometimes leads to hoods falling off, students being tugged or poked, or even humorous mishaps caught on camera.
Space Constraints: On crowded stages or in tight aisles, maneuvering to perform the hooding properly without tripping over gowns, cords, or wires can be difficult.
Training Gaps: Faculty often receive little or no training ahead of time. Many arrive on the day of commencement unsure how to perform the hooding efficiently or respectfully.
Accessibility Concerns: For students with mobility aids or health conditions, navigating the physicality of hooding may not be feasible or dignified without additional planning.

Potential Solutions
To preserve the tradition while minimizing logistical hurdles, institutions are experimenting with several solutions:

Pre-Hooding Before the Ceremony

Many institutions now hood students in a separate ceremony or backstage before the formal event. This allows the public ceremony to run more smoothly while still honoring the symbolism in a more controlled setting.

Professional or Trained Hooders

Designating a small, trained group of faculty or staff to perform all hoodings can standardize the process and reduce time and errors. These individuals can rehearse beforehand and ensure consistency.

Peer Hooding

Some institutions have embraced peer hooding, allowing graduates to hood each other. This can create a meaningful moment of camaraderie while also expediting the process, especially when practiced beforehand.

Modified Gown Design

Certain regalia manufacturers now offer gowns and hoods with snaps or fasteners that allow for quicker donning. While less traditional, these designs prioritize efficiency without sacrificing appearance.

Stage Redesign or Alternate Procession Routes

For large ceremonies, institutions may consider altering the procession route or stage design to accommodate more hooding stations or ease transitions between steps of the ceremony.

Educational Materials

Providing faculty and students with a brief video tutorial or printed guide before commencement helps prepare them for what to expect and how to conduct the hooding with dignity and efficiency.

Balancing Tradition with Practicality
Commencement is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Preserving its meaning while reducing avoidable complications is key. By rethinking how we approach hooding logistics—with training, planning, and a willingness to evolve—colleges can better honor their graduates and uphold the spirit of the ceremony.

After all, the focus should be on the achievement, not the choreography.

Building the Future of NAACO: Highlights from the Summer Board Meeting & Boston Meet & Greet

Lacy Dailey
Director at Large – Communications, NAACO Board of Directors
University Events Manager, American Public University System

The NAACO Board recently gathered in Boston for its summer meeting, and while the setting at the Westin Boston Seaport was beautiful, the real energy came from the discussions.

Building the Future of NAACO

Much of the Board’s time was spent on long-term strategic planning as we look ahead to the next five years. Fresh off our 25th anniversary celebration, the group focused on how to grow membership, expand brand awareness, and shape an even stronger future for our community. Planning is also underway for the 2026 Annual Conference, which will take place right back here at the Westin!

The corresponding Boston Meet & Greet brought together over 20 attendees, including local members, board leaders, and representatives from the Corporate Advisory Council. With so many institutions in close proximity, the event was a great reminder of the strength and density of our community in the Northeast.

As we build on the momentum of our last 25 years, we’re setting the course for NAACO’s next chapter! We hope to see you all in Boston this February!

NAACO Member Spotlight with Marcus Jones

Marcus Jones
NAACO President Elect
Chief of Staff to the Vice Provost and Dean, Arizona State University

Passing the Gavel As NAACO’s new president, Marcus shares his vision for expanding the organization’s reach and supporting a new generation of commencement professionals. Learn more about his leadership approach, professional journey, and the values that drive his work.

As the new president, what is your vision for the organization over the next year, particularly in shaping the future of commencement experiences?: My goal over the next year is to increase awareness about NAACO to universities that we have not partnered with before, or it has been a while since they’ve been a member. NAACO has been around for 25 years, and it’s time to build upon that success and shape the next 25 years. We have a lot of new professionals joining the industry, so I want to ensure that they know they have a professional home that they can engage with and develop their careers.

What unique perspectives or experiences do you bring to the presidency that you believe will shape your approach to leading this organization?: Something that I think is unique is that I come from a university, ASU, where we believe in trying anything, being okay with failing, and then trying again. That is a mindset that I’ve embraced, so what I hope to inspire over this next year is allowing our dedicated group of volunteers to step outside of the box and try something new on their committees and see where it goes.

What role do you see collaboration, both within the organization and with external partners, playing in achieving NAACO’s goals?: At the core, we as commencement professionals all have the same goal of creating memorable experiences for our students, their families and friends who visit our campus every year to celebrate a significant milestone in their life. When I think of collaboration, I think of us putting our heads together to make the experiences even more meaningful. It is quite apparent that budget cuts are happening across higher education, but we still have a job to do, and people expect graduation to happen and still be great because they have invested thousands of dollars in your institution. Collaboration is key between us and our corporate partners, who will help us come up with innovative solutions.

What’s your best piece of advice (or tip) for our NAACO community planning ceremonies and events?

Relationships are key. You can know how to do everything and be the best planner with the perfect project plan, but if you are not someone who people want to work with, you will not enjoy this industry. I’ve learned that the better you are to work with, when you need something last minute or something from a partner that’s out of the ordinary, they are more likely to help you if you’ve been well to them.

PS… your vendor is not just someone you cut a check to, engage them throughout the whole planning process.

Have you had a previous job in the past that our readers would find interesting?

I’ll give you two! One, throughout college, I used to deliver flowers for a local flower shop! I primarily worked on the major floral holidays or funerals/weddings. However, it was such a fun experience to help make people’s best (or worst) days look the best that we could. Next time you see me, ask me about a flower story because I sure have a few!

Two, a pride point in my career was being able to set up testing and vaccination sites across the state of Arizona during the pandemic. It was a great way to take my knowledge and experience of large-scale events and translate it into something for the good of society at a time of need. It also kept a lot of our people we use for graduation employed over the next year, since most of my staff were the same people we would hire to work ceremonies.

What is your favorite element or part of commencement day? What is your least favorite?

My favorite part of commencement is actually when the opening fanfare starts and then pomp and circumstance (the full version!) starts to play. I always love seeing some of the behind the scene footage because a camera person will catch me conducting with my fingers. And the reason this is my favorite part is because all the work that we have done has culminated to this moment. The ceremony has started, and I feel like the hard part is done.

Honestly, my least favorite part is when it is over, simply because that means we have to clean up. And I think every person should help because it should not just be your student workers or junior staff cleaning, so I always make sure to hang back and clean up in whatever ceremony I am part of. Specifically for commencement, Melissa loves streamers and these are a “joy” to clean up.

Tell us a personality trait of yours that helps you succeed in your role?: I would say, I am loud and laugh a lot. A lot of people joke and say to me that they “hear me laughing before they see me”. I think the reason that makes me succeed is because I bring happiness to whatever I am doing. Even when I am absolutely mad, I will find a way to bring a laugh out of it and keep it moving forward. We do hard, very hard jobs and might as well keep some fun in it.

How do you manage your personal wellness (or the wellness of your team) leading up to your events?

I walk one of my many dogs a lot, almost every day when it is not too hot. I try to take at least one long weekend a month, even if I don’t go anywhere just to disconnect. I go to one art-related thing by myself a month, that could be a musical, an exhibition at a museum, something at the symphony, a local art show, anything, but it must be by myself.

I encourage my team to do the same and I encourage them to do things outside of work that bring them joy. For example, one of my event managers is an avid runner and does about 4 marathons a year. I make sure he knows that he has the support to be out of work to do that and we will do our best to work the event schedule around his calendar. And if he wants to go running mid-day or do an early morning run and come in a little later, that is always encouraged.

How did you get involved in NAACO originally?: My first conference was in Hawaii, and then I knew I wanted to go again, so I begged to go to Atlanta. I am a firm believer that we are educators at heart, so naturally, I gravitated toward the Education Committee and joined that. My first subcommittee was being a part of the conference education committee and then I also was responsible for curating our Hot Topic calls. This was a natural fit for me because back then, I did a lot of conferences and a lot of executive education for medical professionals and to be honest, it was boring. So being on the Education Committee allowed me to create some great educational experiences for a field that I am so passionate about. I was a part of the education committee for five years and transitioned to the President’s pathway this last year.

What is something about you that might surprise people?: I love to cook and I love to eat. And I love hand washing dishes. Food has been something that has been a part of my life forever. I grew up in the kitchen around my grandmother and my father. We never really ate out, so home cooking means so much to me. I love to cook for others, and I host a big Thanksgiving every year in my backyard.

Thank You to the NAACO Volunteers

Thank You Volunteers We want to express our deep gratitude to the 2024-2025 NAACO Volunteers for their incredible dedication and hard work. Your commitment and enthusiasm have significantly impacted us, and we couldn’t have achieved our goals without your support. Thank you for being such a valuable part of our team!

We want to express our deep gratitude to the 2024-2025 NAACO Volunteers for their incredible dedication and hard work. Your commitment and enthusiasm have significantly impacted us, and we couldn’t have achieved our goals without your support. Thank you for being such a valuable part of our team!

Board of Directors

James Vitagliano, Past President (MGH Institute of Health Professions)
Claudia Davila, President-Elect (University of Arizona)
Marcus Jones, Past President (Arizona State University)
Gabrielle Martinez, Secretary (New Mexico State University)
Sondra Schwartz, Treasurer (Wilfrid Laurier University)
Lacy Dailey, Director at Large, Communications (American Public University System)
Patricia Nolin, Director at Large, Education (Rhode Island College)
Melissa Picher Kelly, Director at Large, Membership (British Columbia Institute of Technology)

Communications Committee

Christine Le, Chair (York University)
Katelyn Doyle (University of Chicago)
Laura Moran (Southern New Hampshire University)
Alexa Morgan (Capilano University)
Angela Ruff (Gonzaga University )
Heather Violett (University of Massachusetts Global)

Education Committee

Sariah Tillotson, Chair (University of Nevada, Reno)
Lindsey Hendriks (Niagara College Canada)
Anna Cottrell (MGH Institute of Health Professions)
Christal Crosby (Case Western Reserve University)
Julie Straus (Western Carolina University)
Amber Sega (California Baptist University)
Stephanie Castro (University of San Diego)

Event Experience Committee

Claudia Gil, Chair (New York University)
Kristine McDonough (University of Cincinnati)
Joshua Green (University of Texas at Austin)
Heather Calkins (Boise State University)
Robin Roup (University of Tampa)
Carmela Arstill (California State University, Long Beach)
James Cuaresma (California State University, Los Angeles)

Membership Committee

Kelly Carland, Chair (University of California, Irvine)
Rachel Huang (McMaster University)
Brandy Hamilton (Fanshawe College)
Joanne Sokolowski (Trent University)
Christine Keys (Kwantlen Polytechnic University)
Miranda MacKenzie (University of Lethbridge)
Katie Harries (Capilano University)
Melva Karnes (University of Cincinnati)
Lisa O’Connell (Kent State University)
Peter Evans (University at Albany, State University of New York)
Kelly O’Malley (University of Vermont)
Deanna Zanella (Southern New Hampshire University)
Mykayla Mitzel (Boise State University)
Kristin McDaniel (Texas State University, San Marcos)
Tammie Davidson (Washington University, St. Louis)
Sarah Ciccone (James Madison University)
Becky Bosstick (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
Patti Gibbons (Elon University)
Whitney Smith (University of California, Davis)

Nominations Committee

Whitney Smith (University of California, Davis)
Claire Alexander (University of Guelph)
Mary Beth Rehrer (Rutgers University)

Regional & Assistant Regional Directors

Rachel Huang, Canada-East (McMaster University)
Brandy Hamilton, Canada-East (Fanshawe College)
Joanne Sokolowski, Canada-East (Trent University)
Melissa Picher Kelly, Canada-West (British Columbia Institute of Technology)
Christine Keys, Canada-West (Kwantlen Polytechnic University)
Miranda MacKenzie, Canada-West (University of Lethbridge)
Katie Harries, Canada-West (Capilano University)
Sara Lycett, (Management Solutions Plus, NAACO HQ)
Melva Karnes, US-North Central (University of Cincinnati)
Lisa O’Connell, US-North Central (Kent State University)
Liza Alrutz, US-North Central (Northwestern University)
Peter Evans, US-Northeast (University at Albany, State University of New York)
Kelly O’Malley, US-Northeast (University of Vermont)
Deanna Zanella, US-Northeast (New Hampshire University)
Mikayla Mitzel, US-Northwest (Boise State University)
Kristin McDaniel, US-South Central (Texas State University, San Marcos)
Tammie Davidson, US-South Central (University, St. Louis)
Sarah Ciccone, US-Southeast (James Madison University)
Becky Bosstick, US-Southeast (University of Maryland, Baltimore County)
Patti Gibbons, US-Southeast (Elon University)
Kelly Carland, US-Southwest (UC Irvin)
Whitney Smith, US-Southwest (University of California, Davis)

Watermelon & Feta Salad: A Summer Showstopper

Photo by Frames For Your Heart on Unsplash

Looking for a quick, easy, and healthy standout side for an upcoming BBQ? Nothing says summer like a refreshing watermelon, but have you thought about jazzing it up with some feta and mint? Bursting with sweet, juicy flavor, and a hint of salty tang, it’s the perfect balance of taste and texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds:

Ingredients
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped or torn
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Optional: pinch of flaky sea salt or light drizzle of olive oil.

Instructions
Combine watermelon cubes, crumbled feta, and mint in a large bowl and toss. Just before serving, drizzle with balsamic glaze. Optionally sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt or a touch of olive oil to finish. Serve chilled and enjoy!

NAACO 2025 Annual Conference Takeaways

Alexa Morgan

Member, NAACO Communications Committee

Ceremonies and Protocol Officer, Capilano University

At the NAACO 2025 Annual Conference in Long Beach, we gathered to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collaborate on solutions to our common challenges. The time we shared offered a chance for our members to learn from industry experts, stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends, and return to our institutions with fresh insights to improve the graduation experience for students, families, and faculty alike. In their own words, here are some of the attendees’ top takeaways:

From the President’s Panel – “I met my people at NAACO.”

“Never let a good crisis go to waste!”

From the presentation by Joanne Sokolowski, Trent University: “‘I want to hear more long speeches by people I don’t know,’ said no one ever.”

From Melissa’s session – Small Changes and Big Impact: “Think about the time you’re asking grads and guests to invest in for their 3-second moment. (Drive time, ceremony length, etc).”

“We are the amalgamation of both professions (project manager and event manager), not by design, but by necessity.”

“Not to diminish all the incredible information I gained about inaugurations, but the highlight has to be Patti Nolan’s parody of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’! What a superstar!”

Overall, attendees took away ideas about volunteers, social media, event planning and project management, communication, security and risk management, and so much more. We encourage you to continue the conversations on NAACO Connect now and throughout the year and we hope you’ll join a Hot Topic Call or attend a Regional Meeting. See you in Boston at the NAACO 2026 Annual Conference!

NAACO 2025 Annual Conference Takeaways

Alexa Morgan

Member, NAACO Communications Committee

Ceremonies and Protocol Officer, Capilano University

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Join us at the NAACO 2025 Annual Conference!

Marcus Jones II

President-Elect, NAACO Board of Directors

Chief of Staff, Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions

Arizona State University

What to expect
Call out for photo submissions for conference slideshow
Know before Go

Reflecting on the Past and Looking to the Future of Convocation at Capilano University – An interview with President Paul Dangerfield

Alexa Morgan

Year 2 Candidate, NAACO Certificate Program

Ceremonies and Protocol Officer, Capilano University

Paul Dangerfield, President, Capilano University

At Capilano University, convocation has deep, joyous meaning for graduates, their friends and family, faculty and employees but how has convocation evolved over time at our institution and what might it look like in the future? As the president of CapU and in his ninth and final year, Paul Dangerfield holds valuable insights into the importance of convocation ceremonies and the evolving role of this milestone in the academic and cultural life of our university.

Since starting as president and vice-chancellor in 2016, Paul Dangerfield has presided over some of the most exciting times in the history of Capilano University, including our 50th anniversary celebrations. In his role, Paul is leading Capilano University forward in pursuing its vision and mission of offering students a remarkable space to thrive with industry-leading instructors, small classes and more than 100 programs across five distinctive faculties. Serving British Columbia’s Sea-to-Sky region with locations in North Vancouver, Squamish and the Sunshine Coast, CapU is a unique space where students are encouraged to make their mark, in and out of the classroom.

Can you share the history behind the convocation tradition at Capilano University and how has the ceremony evolved over the years?
Before becoming a university in 2008, we were Capilano College, and the convocation ceremonies were simpler—They were first and foremost a celebration for our graduates. This celebration brought together grads, family, friends and faculty. Now as a university, while the ceremony itself has evolved to include additional elements, such as Indigenous drummers, unique student speakers and Honorary Degree Recipients (HDRs) who are deeply connected to our institution and community, at its core the ceremony has remained a celebration for all.

What do you believe is the significance of our convocation traditions to the CapU community?
As an institution that is deeply committed to our students’ learning journey, we have always found ways to tell the story of that journey through creativity and the performing arts at our convocations. We have focused on it being a milestone event that will be celebrated and remembered as something special rather than simply a ceremony. They are fun, lively and interactive. We are continuing to evolve to include the Indigenous community of graduates, employees and Elders, embedding important aspects such as drummers, singers and being part of a Canoe Family. Other important traditions now include the meaningful awarding of HDRs to community leaders who have a deep connection to CapU.

What has been your most memorable convocation moment since becoming president?
In 2019, we celebrated 50 years as an institution and at that time we welcomed Sarah McLaughlan as an honorary degree recipient at our milestone convocation ceremonies. Upon receiving her honorary doctorate, McLaughlin performed “In the Arms of an Angel” which was very special moment for our graduates and guests.

Can you describe the significance of your presidential installation ceremony for you personally?
Having my family with me to witness the installation was very meaningful, and I appreciated the inclusion of personal elements into the ceremony. Hearing the Elders speak was also very significant and reinforced the importance of CapU’s relationship with the Elders and Indigenous communities.

How do you envision the future of convocation ceremonies at our university, especially considering advancements in technology?
I’m not sure I see much changing, except that we are now able to connect communities from every corner of British Columbia, Canada and around the world. As a university that loves live performances, we will continue to do that rather than using tech, I suspect.

How can the university community continue to enhance the convocation experience for future graduates?
The most important thing is to keep convocation relevant to the graduates and their families. I think it will also be important to establish strong connections with the alumni so that graduates have a way to stay connected to their classmates and the university family.

As our university events and ceremonies team prepares for the upcoming 2025 convocation ceremonies, we will strive to keep tradition a cornerstone of the event, while focusing on the graduate experience. This interview offered me a unique perspective on how these ceremonies foster community, instill a sense of pride, and help to shape tradition at CapU.

Annual Membership Meeting

This year’s annual membership meeting information is now available in the members’ only section of the NAACO website.

This meeting will occur on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 11:30 am PST at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach in Long Beach, California. The meeting materials include the agenda, proposed bylaw changes, the slate of nominees for the Board, and reports from the Board of Directors. We ask that you please take some time before the meeting to review these materials as presented.

We kindly request that each institution designate a single delegate for voting purposes. While all members are welcome to attend, only one representative per institution is permitted to cast a vote.

We look forward to seeing you in Long Beach, CA very soon!

NAACO’s Inaugural Founders Award

Claudia Davila, President, NAACO; Jim Vitagliano, Immediate Past President, NAACO; and Bill Campbell, Vice President, Balfour, presented the inaugural NAACO Founders Award to Melissa Goitia at the 25th Anniversary Celebration (February 10, 2025) in Long Beach, CA.

Dear NAACO Community,

On behalf of the NAACO Board of Directors, we are thrilled to announce the establishment of the NAACO Founders Award, a new honor created to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of commencement and convocation planning. This prestigious award celebrates those who exemplify the core values of NAACO: integrity, professionalism, inclusivity, and a deep respect for the traditions and impact of commencement ceremonies.

The NAACO Founders Award was established in tandem with our 25th anniversary to honor professionals who have advanced our industry and fostered community, innovation, and excellence in their work. This year, at our annual conference, we presented the inaugural award to Melissa K. Goitia, the co-founder of NAACO whose dedication and vision have left a lasting impact on our association and the profession. Melissa serves as the Executive Director of the Office of University Events and Protocol and the Executive Director of the Office of University Events at Arizona State University.

Melissa’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping modern commencement practices, mentoring peers, and promoting collaboration across institutions. Her commitment to creating meaningful, accessible, and memorable ceremonies for graduates and their families embodies the very spirit of this award. More information about future awards will be released later this summer.

Please join us in congratulating Melissa on this well-deserved honor and celebrating the launch of this exciting new tradition within our NAACO community.

Claudia Dávila
President, NAACO Board of Directors

Hot Topic Recap: NAACO Leadership Summary

Whitney Smith

NAACO US Southwest Regional Director

Director, Ceremonies & Special Events

University of California, Davis

I was honored to participate as a panelist on the October Hot Topic Call: Effective Leadership: Twist & Turns on the Journey. Here is a summary of the insights I had the privilege of sharing during the discussion.

As the director of ceremonies and special events in the Chancellor’s office at the University of California, Davis, I lead a team of six event planners, and serve as a resource for event planners across our campus.

Leadership is not a straight path but rather a winding journey filled with challenges, growth opportunities, and moments of both triumph and self-doubt. The most effective leaders understand that their development is an ongoing process that requires adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning.

Before one can effectively lead others, they need self-awareness, strong time management skills, and personal accountability. Staying abreast of changes and clear communication, create a solid foundation for your direct reports.

True leadership isn’t about control, but influence and that is intrinsically linked to a team’s growth and wellbeing. Allowing your team to take ownership of certain tasks builds professional confidence and trust. Building trust within a team takes time, but losing it happens in a moment.

While leaders must stay true to their core values, they must also evolve and grow.

Success can teach valuable lessons, it’s often the missteps that forge the strongest leaders. These moments force leaders to confront their limitations, acknowledge mistakes, and demonstrate vulnerability. What works in times of stability might be inadequate during crisis or rapid change. This often requires unlearning old habits, embracing new perspectives, and continuously refining your approach. The ability to bounce back from setbacks while maintaining team morale becomes a defining characteristic of seasoned leaders.

The path of leadership is indeed full of twists and turns, each presenting both challenges and opportunities for growth. Success lies not in avoiding these turns, but in approaching them with curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning. The leadership journey is ultimately a path of continuous evolution, where success is measured not by reaching a destination but by the growth, connections, and positive change created along the way.

I encourage you to attend future Hot Topic Calls to gain valuable insights from a diverse group of thought leaders and to continue learning alongside others on their leadership journeys.

“While leaders must stay true to their core values, they must also evolve and grow.”

NAACO Member Spotlight with Gabrielle Martinez

Gabrielle Martinez
Secretary, Board of Directors
Associate Registrar, Curriculum Systems,
New Mexico State University

In this NAACO Member Spotlight, we are excited to introduce Gabrielle Martinez, NAACO Board Secretary and Associate Registrar at New Mexico State University, who has dedicated 14 years to planning commencement ceremonies.

What do you love most about your work?: The reason I do what I do is because of the incredible success stories of our graduates. I love hearing them, whether at the Graduation Fair or on a phone call with a student troubleshooting a challenge. I am grateful that, in this industry, we have the opportunity to share in their academic achievements. As a first-generation graduate myself, I find great joy in giving back and supporting students throughout their academic journey.

What’s your best piece of advice (or tip) for our NAACO community planning ceremonies and events?: My best advice is to turn to our NAACO colleagues and community for guidance and support, whether through NAACO Connect online, in person at a Regional Meeting, or at the Annual Conference. Don’t hesitate to post a question in the NAACO Forum; you’re not alone in seeking advice. The NAACO community is full of content experts ready to share their knowledge and give back, even for the smallest questions such as, “What shoes should I wear to my ceremony?”; Tip: Don’t wear heels to the first ceremony you plan. (Learned that the hard way!) Share your knowledge and ask questions. You will be amazed at the impact you can have by sharing your institution’s best practices and vision.

What is something about you that might surprise people?: I’ve attended over 200 concerts across various genres of music, but heavy metal holds a special place in my heart. I love singing at the top of my lungs, swaying to the energy of the crowd, and jumping around the mosh pits. When I first started attending concerts, it was all about the music, but now I can’t help but notice the stage setup, A/V, and security arrangements. 🙂

Have you had a previous job in the past that our readers would find interesting? (In academia or otherwise; could be your first job).: One of my very first jobs in high school was a media content designer for the Pre-School, Head Start program in my small rural community. I developed a deep appreciation for the impact of education and wanted to highlight the program throughout the state of New Mexico through newsletters and email blasts. This first job came full circle when I joined NMSU. Through collaboration, I started a new tradition: inviting the small graduates from our local Las Cruces Head Start Program to attend and participate in the beginning scripting of our University Commencement Ceremony.

What is your favorite element or part of commencement day? What is your least favorite?: The most satisfying part of the Commencement Ceremony and the moment I finally take a small sigh of relief is when all the graduates find their seats and the opening line of the ceremony script begins. I take a moment to look around and see the families and supporters in the stands, beaming with pride for their graduates. While I know challenges may still arise throughout the ceremony, in that instant, I realize that all the months of planning have led to this moment. And in the end, every bit of stress is worth it to share this experience with the graduates and their loved ones.; My least favorite part of Commencement Ceremony day is cleaning up, when the confetti has fallen and the adrenaline of the day has worn off, it’s always hard to find that last bit of energy to collect our equipment, organize and move it out.

What is your favorite guilty pleasure or healthy snack that gets you through the planning process?: My guilty pleasure is indulging in spicy New Mexican comfort food while binge-watching a TV series.

What is a work challenge that keeps you up at night?: A current work challenge keeping me up at night is finding a cost-sharing solution for a new stage and new ramp for our Commencement Ceremony. With tight budgets, I’m exploring creative funding options and leveraging my network of colleagues to identify potential cost-sharing opportunities.

Share one question/topic that you’d love other members to provide suggestions or solutions for?: I’m hoping to gain more insight into stage setup and design, particularly from industry experts in production and behind-the-scenes logistics. While I’ve learned a lot, I continue to pick up new terminology when working with our production and A/V teams. Understanding their lingo is key to effectively communicating and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Share your favorite NAACO benefit.: The biggest benefit of NAACO is the wealth of expertise and the diversity of perspectives you’ll gain when seeking answers to a question. You might have one member with deep knowledge in volunteer management and another with a technical focus, and by combining these viewpoints, you can develop a comprehensive approach to volunteer coordination and management. I’ve adopted many ideas from NAACO in my own work. When I took over the Commencement Ceremony, there was a clear need for innovation and modernization, both behind the scenes in volunteer management and in streamlining processes like printing and distributing the Commencement Program. With ideas from NAACO, we were able to reduce the number of volunteers needed from 120 to just 60 on ceremony day.

Do you or your team have something special you do before or after events to celebrate?: We celebrate small successes and enjoy a great pre-ceremony luncheon together. Once everything is set up and ready, we take an hour before the ceremony to sit down and intentionally create a space to share a meal, reflect on past ceremonies, and discuss what to expect for the upcoming one. It’s always refreshing to celebrate the successes so far and laugh about the funny moments from previous ceremonies. This is a purposeful moment to sit, hydrate, and decompress before the big event.

How did you get involved in NAACO originally? How did you get involved in your current NAACO volunteer role?: I first got involved with NAACO by volunteering at my first Annual Conference, where I helped check in attendees for their educational sessions. I then shared my NAACO experience on social media and engaged in the online forum. As someone new to the profession, I was eager to gather diverse perspectives on challenges I was facing and ideas for improving our ceremonies. That’s when the Communications Director reached out and invited me to join the Communications Committee. I was hooked from then on to share what I learned and to share NAACO. Here’s a summary of my NAACO journey:; Conference Volunteer (2013)
Communications Committee (2013-2021)
Regional Director (2019-2020)
Board of Directors, Secretary (Interim 2021-2022, 2022-Present)
NAACO Certificate Program Graduate (2020)
Subcommittees:
RFP Committee (2019-2020)
Social Media Subcommittee
Certificate Program Review
The Mace Quarterly Newsletters: Articles from 2016-2021
Conference Presenter, Hot Topics, and Conference Emcee

How do you stay motivated when the going gets tough?: I stay motivated by reconnecting with the purpose behind what we do for students and their supporters. During tough times, communication and collaboration keep me going. I rely on my colleagues, discussing any challenges that come up to work through them together.

What do you like to do for fun when you are not planning events (i.e. hobbies)?: I love to escape to the mountains to forage and immerse myself in nature, attending concerts, and spending time with my family, including my many amazing nieces and nephews.

Tell us a personality trait of yours that helps you succeed in your role?: I am a strategic problem solver. I am quick to identify a solution and thrive in finding multiple contingency plans, always prepared with a Plan A, B and sometimes C.

NAACO Joins the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO)

The North American Association of Commencement Officers, Inc. (NAACO) proudly announces its corporate membership with the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO), reinforcing its commitment to advancing higher education alongside like-minded institutions and professionals. As a member of AACRAO, NAACO will connect with professionals who share our passion for enhancing student services, enrollment services, and institutional success.

As part of this new partnership, NAACO will actively participate in AACRAO’s conferences and events, including exhibiting at key gatherings starting with the 110th AACRAO Annual Meeting in Seattle on March 30, 2025 – April 2, 2025. By engaging with the AACRAO community, NAACO aims to foster collaboration, share expertise, and contribute to advancing higher education practices in North America.

About AACRAO
The American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) is a leading nonprofit professional association dedicated to providing best practices, research, and training for higher education enrollment and academic services professionals.

Self-Care Strategies for Another Busy Season Ahead

Christine Le

Chair, NAACO Communications Committee

Senior Planner, Convocation & Advancement Events, York University

Photo by Max van den Oetelaar on Unsplash

Spring is here and with it comes commencement season. We are quickly entering into one of the busiest and most demanding times of the year. Between coordinating all the small details and tackling the unexpected hurdles that always seem to pop up, it’s easy to feel like you’re running on empty. Amid this chaos, it’s important to prioritize yourself, because self-care is just as important as checking off the tasks on your seemingly endless to-do list.
Here are some practical strategies to help you navigate this busy season while maintaining your wellbeing so you can perform at your best.

Build in Breaks
Effective time management is key, but it’s equally important to schedule regular breaks. Take a short walk, have a coffee break, have a KitKat, or stand up and stretch it out. Just a few minutes to step away from your desk can reduce stress and improve focus. By building in these small breaks, you’ll stay more productive and clear-headed.

Just Breathe
You’re already doing it! The next step is to practice beathing exercises that will help reduce your body’s stress response so you can stay calm and in control when stress rises. When we are calm, our breathing is steady, but when we are stressed or anxious, our breathing becomes irregular and shallow. Slowing down or deepening your breath can essentially trick your brain into thinking that you’re in a calm state. Some common breathing techniques include changing your inhale / exhale ratios or alternating nostrils. Learn more about different breathing techniques.

Stay Active, Hydrated, and Rested
Physical health directly impacts your mental clarity. Keep up with your workout routine if you have one or incorporate brief walks throughout the day to relieve stress and boost energy. Also, remember to drink water regularly and always keep that water bottle close! Hydration helps maintain focus and prevents fatigue. Apps like Water Minder or Hydro Coach can help you set reminders and track your intake. Finally, prioritize sleep. A rested mind and body are vital to staying focused and resilient.

Make Time for Things You Enjoy
Don’t forget to do things that make you happy! Whether it’s reading, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones, doing what you love can help recharge your energy and improve your mood. These moments of relaxation and joy are incredibly valuable to your wellbeing.

Recognize the Signs of Stress and Burnout
The burnout is real. If you catch the early signs of burnout—fatigue, irritability, or lack of motivation—it’s time to step back. Take a breather, reflect and reevaluate on your workload, and set boundaries. Seek support from those close to you and if needed, explore mental health resources like those offered through your employer or consider professional help from a therapist or counselor.
The next few months may be a whirlwind, but if you take care of yourself along the way, you’ll not only survive—you’ll thrive.

Welcome New Institutions!

NAACO is the only professional association for college and university commencement and convocation officers throughout North America. Only post-secondary institutions that handle commencement, convocation, and graduation ceremonies are welcome to join.

Affiliate members are the individuals of a member institution and can be added by the primary NAACO member. We look to engage with affiliate members on NAACO Connect, on social media sites, and at upcoming events, including hot topic calls, the annual conference, and regional meetings.

Let’s welcome these institutions that are new to NAACO:

Anne Arundel Community College 101 College Pwky Arnold, MD 21012	Crandall University 333 Gorge Rd Moncton, NB E1C9L7
Empire State University 2 Union Ave Saratoga Springs, NY 12866	The Evergreen State College 424 Beacon Street Boston, MA 02492
Mount Allison University 62 York Street Sackville, NB E4L1E2	Mount Allison University 62 York Street Sackville, NB E4L1E2
University of Maine at Augusta 46 University Drive Augusta, ME 4330

Update From NAACO Headquarters

S’Neta Benefield

Executive Director, NAACO

Hello NAACO Members!

Thank you to all who joined us at this year’s Annual Conference and for the warm welcome as I step into my role as Executive Director. Celebrating NAACO’s 25th anniversary with such a passionate and dedicated group of members and volunteers was an honor. Your commitment to advancing the field of commencement planning, special events, and academic ceremonies is inspiring.

I look forward to learning from and working alongside all of you.

This year, we also took an essential step in expanding our professional connections by exhibiting at AACRAO’s 110th Annual Meeting. We recognize the value of building relationships with peers in higher education, and this marks the beginning of an exciting collaboration. If you’re attending AACRAO, we invite you to visit us at booth 511 to connect and explore ways we can support one another.

Additionally, please review the recently released Dear Colleague Letter, which provides critical insights relevant to our field. Understanding these evolving policies will be essential as we continue to navigate the changing landscape of higher education.

Finally, our association thrives because of the dedication of its volunteers. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back, now is the perfect time to get involved. Whether you’re interested in joining a committee, mentoring new members, or contributing your expertise in another way, your participation makes a difference. Click here to learn more: https://naaco.co/volunteer-with-naaco

Thank you again for being part of this incredible community. I’m excited about what’s ahead and look forward to working together to advance our profession.