The Mace – March 2025 Edition

• Message from the President
• NAACO 2025 Annual Conference Takeaways
• SAVE THE DATE
• Reflecting on the Past and Looking to the Future of Convocation at Capilano University – An interview with President Paul Dangerfield
• NAACO’s Inaugural Founders Award
• NAACO Member Spotlight with Gabrielle Martinez
• NAACO Joins the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO)
• Self-Care Strategies for Another Busy Season Ahead
• Welcome New Institutions and Affiliate Members!
• Update From NAACO Headquarters

Message from the President

As we look back from celebrating the 25th Anniversary of NAACO at the conference this last month, let’s reflect on a chance for renewal. Especially for all of us, for our communities, and for our commitment to being agents of positive change. We must hold ourselves accountable to the pressing challenges of our time and approach these issues with compassion, empathy, and action.

For those of us leading and supporting others in this next chapter, let us remember that true leadership requires us to be sensitive to the needs of others—particularly those who are enduring hardship. It calls on us to listen deeply and act with both urgency and care, understanding that the journey toward recovery, whether personal or communal, takes time and unwavering support.

As commencement officers, our work is not just about overseeing a ceremony, but about fostering an environment where growth, empathy, and collective responsibility flourish. We are called to create spaces that uplift, recognize the struggles many face, and honor the diverse paths through which individuals arrive at this significant moment in their lives.

Let us continue to build bridges, not just of celebration, but of understanding. As we continue to reflect and celebrate 25 years of NAACO excellence, let us look to celebrate our past, our present, and our future. Let us celebrate the progress we’ve made, the lessons we’ve learned, and the bonds we’ve formed. Let us also recommit ourselves to the values that have always driven us: a dedication to excellence, a passion for celebrating academic achievement, and a deep sense of empathy for the communities we serve.

As we look ahead to the spring ceremonies, I hope that this season is filled with success, unity, and moments of pride as we all come together to honor the accomplishments of those who have earned their place in the spotlight. These ceremonies mark significant milestones for graduates, families, and institutions, and I know each one of you will continue to create celebrations that reflect the hard work and achievements of the graduates.

Warmest regards.

NAACO 2025 Annual Conference Takeaways

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!

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

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.

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

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

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:

Update From NAACO Headquarters

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.

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