Commencement is one of the largest events on campus and will bring more than 50,000 guests and graduates to the University Events Center in May 2026. This workshop will prepare employees for this monumental event and ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all in attendance.
Session attendees will gain knowledge of general commencement protocol, services available to guests and graduates, evacuation procedures, and details about their role in an emergency. This includes a 45-minute presentation from the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center (ALERRT) on active attack protocols.
This session is available to faculty, staff, and student employees that will be working at a commencement ceremony this spring or summer 2026. Additional sessions are planned for fall 2026.
Registration for this session closes on March 27. Space is limited so please register soon!
Presenters:
Assistant Chief Daniel Benitez, University Police Department
Chief Matt Carmichael, University Police Department
John Curnutt, Assistant Executive Director, ALERRT Center
James Frye, Fire Marshal, Environmental Health, Safety, Risk, and Emergency Management
Rodrigo Gonzales, Shuttle Services Manager, Transportation and Fleet Services
Steven Herrera, Transportation Services Director, Transportation and Fleet Services
Kristin McDaniel, Commencement Coordinator, Academic Affairs
Karla Munoz-Rivera, Supervisor, Environmental Health, Safety, Risk, and Emergency Management