UVA Alumni Rally to Support Final Exercises in New Volunteer Initiative
In a heartwarming show of support, over 100 University of Virginia alumni and their families are returning to Grounds to volunteer at this year’s Final Exercises. This initiative is part of a fresh outreach program, born from a discussion between Andrea Devine, the senior director for volunteer engagement in UVA’s External Relations office, and Cecil Banks, executive director of UVA’s Office of Major Events. Their idea was simple: extend an invitation to alumni residing within an hour of Charlottesville to revisit their cherished memories and help create new ones for the Class of 2026.
“We didn’t know how it would be received,” Devine remarked. “We’ve never done a big calling for alumni to contribute or volunteer in this way.” However, the swift and enthusiastic response quickly dispelled any uncertainty, with the volunteer quota filled just two days after the invitation was sent out.
Banks was not surprised by the overwhelming response. “As an alumnus, I know how special UVA is,” he explained. “We have the most dedicated and generous alumni in the world. They remember how special and memorable their walk down the Lawn was, and I think they want to make it special for the Class of 2026.”
Volunteers will be positioned in three primary areas across the university Grounds: information tents, ticket assistance, and the balloon brigade. The brigade plays a special role by collecting personalized balloons from graduates and delivering them to patients at UVA Health Children’s. Meanwhile, RMC event staff will manage guest entrances and offer usher support.
Devine emphasized that the volunteer effort symbolizes more than logistical support. “We couldn’t do it without them. This is really important to our students – the value of giving back,” she stated.
For Dennis, a returning volunteer and alumnus, the chance to give back is deeply personal. Having experienced previous graduations from a volunteer standpoint, he understands the day’s significance from both perspectives. His advice to the new graduates is simple yet profound: put the phone down and savor the moment.
“It’s going to be tempting to take pictures and record,” Dennis advised, “but just take in everything that’s happening in that present moment. There will be pictures – just keep it in your memory as a graduate.”
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