Staff Volunteer Opportunities

As we continue supporting our students, there are several exciting opportunities to give back to the Cornell community and ensure that our students, student’s families, and summer guests all have the best possible experience on campus. Volunteering is also a fun way to connect with new people on campus or to get involved as a group and help give back. With Commencement and Reunion finalized, and Move-In not far behind, please consider saving the dates and signing up as a volunteer. Use the links below to learn more about each of these opportunities and to sign up for a date and time to help contribute to these meaningful events.

Commencement

May 23-25, 2025

We cannot support our students and their guests without your help! There are a variety of roles to fill at any of the three Commencement events. Whether you prefer to walk, sit, or be indoors or out, we’re happy to help find an enjoyable role perfect for you.

Learn more about the benefits of volunteering and sign up to help here.

Reunion

June 5-8, 2025

Over 7,000 Cornellians and their families return to Ithaca every June for their class Reunion. The 2025 reunion runs from June 5 to 8 and is packed full of programming, including class meals, Cornell lectures, family-friendly activities, dance parties, and more.

To make this event a success, we rely on volunteers to help Conference and Event Services to staff our Reunion housing check-in desks. This is a fun experience where you meet great alumni and interact with staff from across campus. This is a seated role, where you will greet alumni, collect signed forms, check them into rooms, distribute keys, respond to general inquiries, and provide directions as needed. 

Housing check-in hours are:

• Thursday, June 5:  10:30 am – 10:30 pm and
• Friday, June 6:  7:30 am – 10:30 pm.

We are looking to find volunteers for 4-hour shifts, 8-hour shifts, or partial shifts.  To register, please submit the Reunion Volunteer Shift Signup form. Contact ceshelp@cornell.edu with questions.
 

Move-In

August 18-22, 2025

Join the Big Red Welcome Team as we greet our students and families this Fall! As the first point of contact for students and visitors, you'll set the tone for their Cornell experience. By extending a warm welcome and treating Cornell like home, you'll make everyone feel at ease and part of the community.

Hosts are the first to welcome students and families to campus, helping them navigate the way and answering any questions they may have. Students may also have the opportunity to escort students and families into their residence halls and assist with moving in their belongings - making their transition to Cornell a smooth and personalized experience.

Requirements include:

• Smiles
• Cornell Pride
• Flexibility to work in all kinds of weather - rain, shine, or whatever Mother Nature brings!

Be prepared to spend extended periods on your feet, with nearby covered seating areas available for brief breaks.

Signups to volunteer are available online, so you can register now and choose your desired location and role! Workgroups can also be stationed together, providing a fun team-building and staff engagement opportunity. If you would like to work as a group, please contact ceshelp@cornell.edu with your team name, the number of team members, and your preferred shift(s). We will work with you to accommodate your needs. We look forward to seeing you at Move-in!

Students will receive community service hours and verification upon request. All volunteers will also receive branded apparel to help identify them to campus guests, as well as snacks and water (meals will be provided if your shift falls during a meal period). Additionally, you will have access to necessary supplies, such as sunscreen and water.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with your list of shifts and information about a brief training session. 

Thank You

As always, thank you for taking the time to contribute to the success of these events. These are opportunities to make a positive impact on the experiences of new students, graduating students, and Cornell alumni alike. Your time and effort truly make a difference in ensuring that these events are as fun, memorable, and meaningful as possible.