Commencement
Graduate and family facing away from the camera

For family and guests

The university looks forward to welcoming you to campus throughout the week to recognize this milestone in your student's life and to celebrate their accomplishments.

Parking

Parking at the Schottenstein Center is available at no charge in lots north of Borror Drive, in the Fawcett Center lot on Olentangy River Road, the St. John Arena lot on Lane Avenue, and the north and south French Field House lots. Shuttle buses will run between the "Buckeye" lots just south of Ackerman Road and the northeast rotunda of the Schottenstein Center.

  • Disability parking is available in lots directly adjacent to the Schottenstein Center on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • A permanent or temporary Ohio or other state-issued disability placard is required.
  • Additional disability parking is available in the "Buckeye" lots where lift-equipped shuttles run to the Schottenstein Center.

Doors and seating

  • The Jerome Schottenstein Center opens at 12 p.m. on commencement day.
  • Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Tickets are not required for guests.

Accessibility accommodations

The facility provides easy access for guests with permanent or temporary disabilities. Seating for those guests is located throughout the arena. Guests in a wheelchair, or having limited mobility, are permitted in these areas. If possible, please limit to one companion so we can accommodate everyone. Guest attendants are located at the rotunda entrances to assist guests and provide directions.

Further information is available in an online Accessibility Guide for the Jerome Schottenstein Center or by calling the Office of Commencement and Special Events at 614-292-9051. Some services described in the online accessibility guide are limited for commencement.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation

An American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter will be present during the ceremony. Seating for guests who would like the interpretation services will be in section 121. Due to space limitations, we again ask that only one companion be seated with the guest requiring ASL interpretation.

First aid

A first aid room is located on the entry level concourse at section 118. Arena ushers can provide directions.

Photography

A professional photographer will take a picture of each graduate as diplomas are awarded. A complimentary photograph will be mailed via the U.S. Postal Service to the address provided by the graduate on commencement day approximately one month after graduation. Graduates will also receive an email with proofs of their photos. You are not obligated to order photographs; this is merely a service.

  • Photographs must be taken from the stands.
  • Only press photographers with proper credentials are permitted on the arena floor.

Security precautions

Important notes

The Schottenstein Center opens at 12:00 p.m. on commencement day. Tickets are not required for guests. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

All items and persons entering the Schottenstein Center are subject to security screening and inspection via a walk through metal detector and/or a hand wand metal detector. Arrive to the Schottenstein Center early in order to avoid lines and delays getting into the arena. Guests will not need to remove any items (wallet, keys, phone, etc.) from their person as they pass through.

Prohibited items

Guests should expect a visual inspection of person, bags and clothing capable of concealing prohibited items. Your cooperation is appreciated.

  • Alcohol
  • Coolers
  • Bags of any type, including but not limited to backpacks, purses, handbags, fanny packs, cinch sacks, camera bags, messenger bags, binocular cases, duffel bags, grocery bags, suite cases, or any other bags.
    • Only wallets, wristlets, or clutches no larger than 5”x8”x1” are permitted. To reduce touchpoints with staff and lengthy inspections, guests are encouraged to not bring a bag to the venue.
  • Noisemaking devices
  • Mace, pepper spray, aerosol cans or similar substances
  • Banners or signs
  • Sticks or poles
  • Weapons or items that mimic weapons including, but not limited to: lighters, matches, firearms (including Concealed Carry Weapon permit holders), fireworks, pocket knives, knives, spiked bracelets, brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, stun guns, squirt guns, super soakers, rope and chains
  • Any item deemed dangerous or inappropriate

Permitted items

  • Cameras
  • Video recorders
  • Binoculars
  • Seat Cushions
  • Wallet, Wristlet, or Clutch (with or without strap) no larger than 5″ x 8″ x 1″. Bags of any type/size are not permitted.
  • Clear water bottles
  • Pagers
  • Cell phones
  • Umbrellas (permitted, but use during the ceremony is discouraged)
  • One 14x14x4 bag per person will be permitted for:
    • Dietary or medical needs (medications, single serving snack for medical needs, medical equipment etc.)
    • Child care needs (diapers, formula, baby food, baby bottle, pumps, etc.)
    • Guests with medical, dietary, or childcare needs may enter through their assigned gate location and have their items inspected by the security staff.