To ensure the safety of all graduates and their guests, heightened security measures will be in effect May 14-17 throughout Commencement Weekend ceremonies and events. Anyone who sees anything suspicious should immediately contact the BUPD at 617-353-2121.
Security Procedures
Security procedures are detailed below but may be revised as the weekend approaches.
- BU Police and professional security personnel will monitor all entry points to Commencement and Convocation venues.
- All students, faculty, staff, volunteers, guests, and vendors will be subject to screening when entering any Commencement Weekend venue, possibly with a metal-detecting wand or similar devices.
- Guests who are not carrying a bag may use an express entrance lane, if available.
- Only small and average-size handbags, purses, and camera bags will be allowed (no large totes, over-sized purses, backpacks, large diaper bags, or messenger bags). Bag size is limited to 12″ x 12″ x 6″. All bags will be physically inspected prior to entry.
- No other bags, gift bags, wrapped gifts, packages, briefcases, backpacks, or luggage will be allowed in a Commencement or Convocation venue, including Nickerson Field.
Prohibited Items
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- Alcoholic beverages
- Aerosols
- Ammunition
- Amplified sound devices, e.g.: noisemakers, bullhorns, megaphones, speakers
- Balloons (only prohibited from the graduate seating areas)
- Explosives
- Firearms
- Fireworks
- Full-sized Flags (Note: Small handheld flags will be allowed – maximize size 7″x5″ and flag must represent a country)
- Glass containers
- Laser pointers
- Mace/pepper spray
- Paint
- Structures, e.g.: folding tables, chairs, tents, etc.
- Signage, e.g.: posters, banners, flyers and any item that could obstruct the view of guests and graduates
- Supports for signs
- Unmanned aerial systems, e.g.: drones, remote control aircraft
- Weapons
- Any other item determined to be a potential hazard
If guests have packages or bags that are not permitted, they may leave them at a “self-check” area adjacent to the venues. While this area will be monitored by security, the University will not provide a claim check process and will not be responsible for packages left in the self-check area.
Bomb-detection dogs from the Boston Police Department and Massachusetts State Police will sweep specific venues and open areas, including self-check bag storage and checkpoint areas.
Graduates and faculty should carry their robes into event venues and then dress in designated lineup areas.
We thank you for your cooperation with these important precautions.