Celebrating the ASU Gammage and ASU Cultural Affairs Class of 2026 Student Workers

The room was filled laughter, musical references, and the kind of inside jokes only coworkers-turned-family understand. It wasn’t just another gathering, it was a heartfelt sendoff for a group of graduating student workers whose time at ASU Gammage and ASU Cultural Affairs had shaped not only their careers, but each other. 

This end-of-year celebration brought together students from across departments—front of house, box office, concessions, security, and administrative services—each recognized not just for their roles, but for the energy, personality, and dedication they brought to the theater. 

For many students, working at ASU Gammage was far more than a campus job. It was a place where friendships were formed, confidence was built, and passions were discovered. Stories over the years were shared and favorite shows like WICKED, MAMMA MIA!, THE BOOK OF MORMON, and SIX came up again and again, each tied to a memory: a first shift, a chaotic but funny night or a quiet moment connecting with a patron. 

Box Office student worker Lauren recalled her very first ticket sale that took place five years ago when she first started as a student worker during her freshman year.  

“My favorite memory was my very first sale that I ever did. It was for seven LION KING tickets, and it was over $1,000, and the lady yapped my ear off for about 30 minutes while she did it,” Lauren shared with a laugh.  

That one sale and half-hour conversation set the tone for her customer service journey.  

Others reminisced about late-night load-outs, playing card games between shifts, or simply laughing together during downtime. One standout memory shared by Assistant House Manager, Jarrett, caused the room to erupt in laughter.  

“My favorite memory has to be the one time we were at hat check during a show called FOOD, and one of our old coworkers, Romeo, left his Texas roadhouse in the hat check. He called command, saying, ‘Hey, I left my food. If you guys want to eat it, you can.’ We just went to town on the bread rolls.”  

Supervisors and managers took time to honor each graduate individually, highlighting qualities that can’t be taught: kindness, reliability, humor, and heart. One standout recognition described a student as “the person you trust when everything needs to go right,” someone whose presence made leadership feel effortless.  

Another was praised for bringing calm to chaos, while others were recognized for their positivity, teamwork, and ability to make everyone feel seen. These weren’t generic accolades, they were deeply personal reflections, built on years of shared experience. 

The diversity of academic paths among the graduates was striking. Degrees ranged from theater and media arts to computer science, business, and data analytics. Some students are heading into full-time roles, others into graduate programs, and a few are pursuing dreams in the arts—from creative directing in Los Angeles to performing careers and arts leadership. 

International students spoke about their first jobs in the U.S., describing Gammage as a “second family” that made a new country feel like home. Their gratitude underscored the environment that had been created—one of inclusion, mentorship, and support. 

While audiences see the performances on stage, this celebration highlighted the people behind the scenes who make those experiences possible. From ensuring safety during late-night events to welcoming guests with a smile, these students shaped the patron experience in meaningful ways. 

Security staff were commended for their vigilance and camaraderie, often working long, quiet hours but forming strong bonds. Front-of-house staff were recognized for their warmth and adaptability, while concessions and box office teams were celebrated for their hustle and customer care. 

The afternoon wrapped up with group photos, small gifts, promises to stay in touch, and a shared understanding that while this was an ending, it was also a beginning. 

“You’ll always have a home here,” Matt Venrick, VIP Ticketing & Assistant Ticket Office Manager, said and a sentiment that echoed throughout the room. 

Because while these students may be leaving ASU Gammage, the impact they made and the relationships they built will linger long after the final curtain call and shift clock out.