Commencement

Security precautions for family and guests

To ensure the safety of all graduates and their guests, heightened security measures will be in effect throughout commencement ceremonies and events. We thank you for your cooperation with these important 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.
  • Food and 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.