- Message from the President
- Save The Date: NAACO 2025 Annual Conference
- NAACO Corporate Advisory Council
- Signs of the Season
- NAACO Member Spotlight with Mary Beth Rehrer
- Water for Life!
- NAACO Volunteers
- Welcome New Institutions and Affiliate Members!
- Update From NAACO Headquarters
- Join Our LinkedIn Page
- Connect with Fellow NAACO Colleagues
- Thank You to Our Sponsors
- NAACO Resources
James V. Vitagliano
President, NAACO Board of Directors
Associate Dean of Enrollment Services/Registrar, MGH Institute of Health Professions
Dear NAACO Colleagues,
With the summer season upon us, I hope you have a chance to rest, relax, and reflect after a challenging commencement season. The support provided through NAACO Connect and conversations with colleagues helped prepare us fully for any challenges that may have been presented to us. It makes me proud to be a member of our association and to engage with such talented and knowledgeable peers. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to those of you who have volunteered on committees and served as board members. The time and energy that you gave so generously throughout the year are so appreciated!
At our July board meeting held in Long Beach, CA – the location of our next NAACO Annual Conference – I had the privilege of passing the gavel to Claudia Dávila, who will begin her term as President on August 1. I would also like to congratulate Marcus Jones as he steps into the President-Elect role. Also, starting on August 1, I would like to welcome our new Director-at-Large for Communications, Lacy Dailey, and Patti Nolan, our new Director-at-Large for Education. I would also like to recognize Sondra Schwartz, who moved from her appointed role as Treasurer to her elected role beginning her 3-year term. I extend my sincerest thanks to Mary Beth Rehrer for her tremendous contributions to the communications portfolio and Liz McMahan for her outstanding leadership and vision as they complete their terms on the board.
NAACO is a member-driven association, and there are many opportunities to get involved. As the professional home for commencement and convocation officers, NAACO is committed to providing support, resources, and networking opportunities for our member professionals involved in planning and executing academic ceremonies. It also aims to foster a community that is inclusive and representative of its diverse membership.
- The NAACO events calendar provides information on NAACO-sponsored events such as Hot Topics calls and regional meetings. Be sure to take advantage of these offerings and share your expertise with fellow members.
- Mark your calendars for the 2025 Conference in Long Beach! We will be gathering from February 9th through the 12th at the Long Beach Hyatt to share ideas once again and to celebrate our 25th anniversary year. We have some exciting plans to celebrate this milestone, and we hope you can join us.
- Have you implemented a new process or want to share insight on a particular topic? Gain professional recognition and leadership skills and submit a proposal to present an educational session. Watch for the call for proposals coming out soon!
- Get the most out of your membership and host or attend a regional meeting. With a focus on roundtable discussions and information sharing at the local level, our goal is to offer one event in each region this year. NAACO HQ provides support including agenda templates and registration management for these institution-hosted meetings.
- Watch for your invitation to the Fall Commencement Showcase, an opportunity to learn more about the incredible resources, knowledge, and solutions that our corporate partners offer.
- Expand your leadership skills and strategically plan for the association’s ongoing success by considering joining the board or a committee. Reach out to a board member to learn more about the roles and opportunities.
- Know someone at another institution who would benefit from these and other NAACO member benefits? Share this edition of the MACE with your colleagues and connect them with NAACO HQ. As we continue to grow our membership, you are our best advocates.
As I move into the Past President role, let me take this opportunity to thank you for your commitment to NAACO and for all of the support you provided over the past year. Please continue to take advantage of the abundant resources and benefits available through your NAACO membership. I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming Hot Topics call in NAACO Connect or Long Beach in 2025!
NAACO Corporate Advisory Council
Liz McMahan
Past President, NAACO Board of Directors
Assistant Director, Strategic Initiatives & Communications, University of Toronto
NAACO benefits greatly from trusted corporate colleagues who serve as sage advisors and mentors and provide financial support to help maintain the association. The NAACO Corporate Advisory Council (CAC) recently joined us in Long Beach for meetings and a tour of the conference hotel. Consisting of board-selected corporate partners and chaired by the Past President, they help to keep us informed of trends, changes, and member needs. Acting on behalf of all sponsors, the CAC brings invaluable insight and provides feedback on issues raised to them by the board as we advance our mission. We are grateful for the CAC’s active engagement and ongoing support.
Pictured here at our recent US-Southwest Happy Hour are CAC members Rebecca Alptekin (MarchingOrder), Bill Campbell (Balfour), Fernann Ardis (42Chat), and Matthew Redd (StageClip), along with NAACO President Jim Vitagliano and Past President Liz McMahan. The CAC also includes representatives from The Commencement Group, Jostens, and Oak Hall.
Anna Simon
Member, NAACO Communications Committee
Sr. Associate Director of Special Events, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
As commencement planners, we become lost in a whirlwind of planning, packing, adjusting, and pivoting. Amidst the chaos, there lies a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. Every adjustment, brainstorming session (some at strange hours), and challenge to overcome is not just an item to check off the list but the building block of unforgettable memories for our graduates.
While packing items to go to our venues, someone asked what it was all for; I am sure they were referring to the items that I had amassed. I realized that the heart of our planning is that we are crafting a core memory for our graduates and their families. Not only do these events orchestrate the culmination of all our hard work but that of our students, faculty, staff, and their families. Watching the proud smiles and hearing the cheers of 33,332 guests share their jubilation makes me smile, knowing that this moment is etched into the collective consciousness of our university community.
Every year, I find solace in the fact that I can reach out to my colleagues both on campus and at NAACO with questions that may arise during the chaos. This year, more than most, the ability to reach out to you to seek advice and have the support of fellow planners was more valuable than it has ever been. We were able to share insights that enriched our ceremonies and kept everyone safe.
While the stress of the commencement season may seem insurmountable, we should always take a step back and enjoy the impact and profound significance of our work. We don’t just plan; we are the architects of memories and creators of cherished moments.
NAACO Member Spotlight with Mary Beth Rehrer
Heather Violett
Member, NAACO Communications Committee
Events Manager, Academic Affairs, University of Massachusetts Global
On behalf of the Communications Committee, we would like to honor our departing Director-at-Large, Mary Beth Rehrer in this Member Spotlight. Mary Beth is the Manager of Special Events and Programs at Rutgers University. She has been in her role for nine years and is in the Office of the Secretary. We thank her for her time on the NAACO Board and supporting our committee.
- What are your favorite and least favorite parts of commencement day?
- I enjoy the whole ceremony, yet my favorite element is the procession. I love feeling the excitement that exudes from the graduates as they walk onto the field of our football stadium in eight processional lines. They’re briming with happiness and pride, hugging friends, and waving to loved ones.
- My least favorite part of commencement is the possibility of dealing with rain at the outdoor stadium. Good thing most grads and guests can smile right through it!
- What is your best piece of advice for our NAACO community planning ceremonies and events?
- Collaborate and don’t be bashful about asking for advice. There’s always something to learn from others, including from those who don’t know your event. New “eyes” can offer a fresh perspective.
- Can you tell us about a previous job that our readers would find interesting?
- I worked for the local chapter of the National MS Society and was the Director of Bike MS. I directed three bike rides, the largest of which took 2,000 cyclists over a 170-mile route along the New Jersey coast to raise $1 million for the cause. The events had lots of logistics and many moving parts; it was a party on wheels!
- What do you like to do for fun when you are not planning events?
- I spend my spare time with my family and our Golden Retriever. We play on the beach and travel as much as possible.
- Tell us a personality trait of yours that helps you succeed in your role?
- I can find humor in almost any situation and love when others laugh along too. It’s great to keep the attitude light when demands are high.
- What is your favorite guilty pleasure that gets you through the planning process?
- My guilty pleasure is catching a late-night episode of “Family Feud” when I get home from work. It’s worth missing a half hour of sleep to de-stress with Steve Harvey and a round of “Fast Money”!
- What is a work challenge that keeps you up at night?
- Thinking about how to get more faculty to participate in commencement is an ongoing conundrum. It’s a challenge with our ceremony being held on a Sunday and often on Mother’s Day.
- Share your favorite NAACO benefit.
- Nothing beats the NAACO network! Our members are the best at sharing knowledge and resources, and understanding the world of academic ceremonies. It’s terrific to connect with members at regional meetings, the annual conference, and through volunteering. NAACO is like a family where people “get” each other.
- How do you manage your personal wellness leading up to your events?
- Water, water, and more water. Even when I’m sleep-deprived, staying hydrated keeps me high-functioning.
- Do you have something special you do after commencement to celebrate?
- Yes, in the week after commencement, the President’s Office hosts an appreciation luncheon under a beautiful tent. It’s a lovely time to relax and celebrate with colleagues and volunteers.
- How did you get involved in NAACO originally and your current NAACO volunteer role?
- Thankfully my institution had a NAACO membership before I started so I could step in and immediately immerse myself in resources. I found The Forum, the previous iteration of NAACO Connect, and connected with other members. A year later, I attended my first regional meeting, then the NAACO Annual Conference, and hosted a regional meeting the following year.
- That launched my deeper involvement with NAACO as I joined the Communications Committee and am now completing my term as Director-at-Large for Communications. Getting more involved in the association, sharpening my leadership skills as a Board Member, and making lifelong friends has been a priceless experience that I recommend to all members!
- What is something about you that might surprise people?
- I’m an adrenaline junkie! I love driving fast, riding on fast boats, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, riding on crazy rollercoasters, and more. I won two beginner flight lessons in an auction recently and can’t wait to get in the air!
Angela Ruff
Member, NAACO Communications Committee
Manager of Communications and Events, Gonzaga University
Summer is underway, and that means spending time in or near bodies of water to cool off, wind down, and have fun. Enjoying lakes, rivers, and oceans has a strong appeal, and it’s good for human beings as long as we are also managing safety risks.
Good for Mind and Body
The sensory appeal of shimmery surfaces and gentle movement means that just watching a body of water can reduce stress. Marine biologist and author of the Blue Mind Effect, Dr. Wallace J. Nichols, shares evidence that experiencing water in all forms creates neurological, psychological, and emotional changes that improve our life and ability to succeed. A day at the beach can sharpen your senses and put you into a more productive state.
Swimming and playing in the water is a real workout! Harvard reports that water-based exercise is good for boosting mood and getting better sleep. Compared to exercising on dry land, moving our bodies in water is easier on joints and provides greater resistance for higher calorie burn and more effective cardio and strength-building.
Finding Nature’s Spa Near You
I am fortunate to live in a place with access to about 80 lakes within 100 miles and a major river at the heart of the city. There is a good network of local and state organizations offering information and tips on places to jet ski or paddleboard and many other resources to safely enjoy water recreation. It is easy for me to get out on a hot afternoon for a mental boost of natural water or plan for a vacation not far from home that includes the healing power of a lake.
If finding information for enjoying a water adventure isn’t so easy for you, look at a Canadian non-profit organization called Swim Drink Fish. Their initiatives support water health, environmental restoration, and local recreational water access. In response to the most popular question about where people can swim, they built an online Swim Guide that features free and up-to-date water quality information for 10,000 beaches, lakes, rivers, and swimming holes across Canada, the U.S., and beyond.
Be Safe Out There
The life-giving power of water includes the true risk of drowning, and it can happen so very quickly. Prepare for the safety of your loved ones.
The Red Cross reports that drowning is the leading cause of death for children. They provide water competency resources and information on how to prevent and respond to drowning emergencies. See their list of Water Smarts and use their online tool to find swim classes near you.
The Water Sports Industry Association (WSIA) helps to maintain water access rights and promotes education and safety. They reported in June this year that boating fatalities have decreased in recent years, except for paddlers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a record number of Americans took to water sports, including canoeing, kayaking, and standup paddleboarding. Nearly 1/3 of fatalities last year were people with less than 10 hours of experience, leading WSIA to partner with retailers selling entry-level watercraft to help educate newcomers with paddling education and the importance of wearing life jackets. WSIA won an award for their Wake Responsibility video to promote motorized watercraft safety tips like staying at least 200 feet away from shore, keeping music at a reasonable level, and minimizing repetitive passes.
Whatever your aquatic recreation of choice, have a safe and rejuvenating summer in, on, or near the water!
We want to express our deep gratitude to the 2023-2024 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, President (MGH Institute of Health Professions) |
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| Claudia Davila, President-Elect (University of Arizona) |
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| Liz McMahan, Past President (University of Toronto) |
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| Gabrielle Martinez, Secretary (New Mexico State University) |
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| Sondra Schwartz, Treasurer (Wilfrid Laurier University) |
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| Mary Beth Rehrer, Director-at-Large, Communications (Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey) |
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| Marcus Jones, Director-at-Large, Education (Arizona State University) |
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| Melissa Picher Kelly, Director-at-Large, Membership (British Columbia Institute of Technology) |
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| Communications Committee | |
| Lacy Dailey, Chair (American Public University System) |
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| Christine Le (York University) |
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| Angela Ruff (Gonzaga University) |
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| Amber Sega (California Baptist University) |
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| Anna Simon (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign) |
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| Heather Violett (University of Massachusetts Global) |
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| Education Committee | |
| Patricia Nolin, Chair (Rhode Island College) |
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| Abby Bailey (Eastern Virginia Medical School) |
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| Sharon Gabriel Eckstein (Eastern Virginia Medical School) |
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| Julie Straus (Western Carolina University) |
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| Sariah Tillotson (University of Nevada, Reno) |
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| Event Experience Committee | |
| Liz King, Chair (University of British Columbia) |
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| Natasha Binns (Seneca College) |
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| Heather Calkins (Boise State) |
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| Joshua Green (University of Texas at Austin) |
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| Claudia Gill (New York University) |
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| Kristine McDonough (University of Cincinnati) |
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| Membership Committee | |
| Kelly Carland, Chair (University of California, Irvine) |
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| Rachel Huang (McMaster University) |
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| Brandy Hamilton (Fanshawe College) |
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| Joanne Sokolowski (Trent University) |
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| Lisa Elliott (Simon Fraser University) |
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| Melva Karnes (University of Cincinnati) |
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| Lisa O’Connell (Kent State University) |
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| Peter Evans (University at Albany, State University of New York) |
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| Kristin McDaniel (Texas State University, San Marcos) |
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| Sarah Ciccone (James Madison University) |
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| Whitney Smith (University of California, Davis) |
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| Marissa Tuchalski (Arizona State University) |
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| Nominations Committee | |
| Alanna Vernon, Chair (University of British Columbia at Okanagan) |
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| Claire Alexander (University of Guelph) |
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| Patti Nolin (Rhode Island College) |
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| Whitney Smith (University of California, Davis) |
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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:
| Barry University 11300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami Shores, FL 33161 |
Elms College 291 Springfield St, Chicopee, MA 1013 |
Louisiana State University 112 Thomas Boyd Hall, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 |
| Northern Virginia Community College 4001 Wakefield Chapel Rd, Annandale, VA 22003 |
Pratt Institute 200 Willoughby Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205 |
Rice University 6100 Main St., Houston, TX 77005 |
| School of the Art Institute Chicago 36 S. Wabash, Chicago, IL 60603 |
Stephen F. Austin State University P.O. Box 13050, Nacogdoches, TX 75962 |
Utah Valley University 800 W University Parkway MS 294, Orem, UT 84058 |
Update From NAACO Headquarters
Serena G. Weisman, CAE
Executive Director, NAACO
Greetings! As of mid-May 2024, I was happily selected to be your new Executive Director. I have been busy diving into all things NAACO and planning for the 25th anniversary. What an exciting time to be with this fantastic group.
Your NAACO staff has been hard at work getting ready for the upcoming conference in Long Beach, California. The staff and Board have read your surveys and other submitted comments and are making a few changes that we are excited to share with you at the annual conference on February 9-12, 2025 – mark your calendars!
I would like to give a big shout-out to all the volunteers; it simply wouldn’t be the same without you. The volunteers work tirelessly to provide education, the ability to network, sponsors and exhibitors, new ideas, and so much more. There are opportunities for volunteering at different levels within NAACO, and we would love to speak with you regarding the rewarding options. To learn more, please email me at sweisman@msp-amc.com.
Jessica Martin, your director of exhibits and sponsorship, and Sam Alimi, your meeting manager, are busy working with NAACO’s Corporate Advisory Council (CAC) and all our amazing sponsors and exhibitors. Please reach out to Jessica if there is a specific company you would like to see at the NAACO conference. If you have any vendor contacts you could share, send them to jmartin@MSP-AMC.com.
As always, if you need anything from your NAACO staff, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@naaco.org. We are here to help!
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