In a year like none other, graduating seniors have been impacted in unusual ways — one of the most noticeable being a lack of traditional ceremonies and observances.

So when an email went out to all of Strategic Communications at UC Davis announcing, “We are planning a drive-by to celebrate our graduating seniors,” many staffers jumped at the chance to be part of the festivities.

As Sallie Poggi, director of social media, explained, “We want to celebrate our graduating interns this year with a little something extra special since this year has been so hectic and unexpected for them.”

Added Julia Ann Easley of News and Media Relations: “We don’t have our usual gatherings that bring us together. … It’s important to show our graduates that we support them.”

Thus, 19 staff members met in the Mrak Hall parking lot Thursday afternoon (June 11) to decorate their cars and motor scooters with streamers, balloons and signs … with everyone wearing face coverings, of course. Joining the staffers were a couple of spouses, 13 of their children and four dogs.

The lengthy car caravan then made its way through Davis, stopping at homes of the five interns who are still in town. The seniors were given lawn signs with their photos, as well as goodie bags, plus a rousing cheer and many horn blasts from the parade participants.

Jasmin Francis-Bush, director of marketing, was happy for the big turnout. “We just wanted to show appreciation to our amazing interns, some of whom have been with us for four years.”