This message was originally sent from the Chief Academic and Operating Officers on May 6, 2013.
The safety and security of our graduates, guests and staff are of the upmost importance as we plan Commencement Weekend. We are implementing three significant changes to increase security in line with best practices across the nation that are designed to make sure you have an enjoyable Commencement experience:
Two guest tickets per graduate for Undergraduate Commencement
Each member of the Class of 2013 who has confirmed they are attending the ceremony will be provided two tickets for guests to enter the Vietnam Veterans Peace Memorial Amphitheater for the May 12 Undergraduate Commencement. These tickets will be available at the UMass Pass counter on the ground floor of the Campus Center. The counter will be open at the following times:
- Tuesday, May 7 through Friday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m;
- Saturday, May 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m;
- Sunday, May 12, from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
This will guarantee that every member of the Class of 2013 has at least two guests present in the Amphitheater when they receive their diploma. Students wishing to receive extra tickets will be able to place their names on a Wait-List at the UMass Pass counter. Students who have requested additional tickets will need to check in at the UMass Pass counter at 8 a.m. Sunday to see if those tickets are available.
We are happy to accommodate additional friends and family in the large tent just outside the Amphitheater. This tent will be equipped with large screen monitors and sound. Families with small children have found this location especially attractive in the past.
By ticketing the Amphitheater seating for the Undergraduate Ceremony, spectators will know, as they plan their day, which venue they will be allowed to enter, and we will avoid large and congested crowds at the Amphitheater entrance.
Seating for the Graduate Commencement will be open because there is ample room to accommodate all guests.
Visible security presence
Commencement attendees should expect to see a sizeable security presence. While we always have a strong contingent of law enforcement and private security personnel on campus for large events, we are enhancing this presence to improve traffic and crowd management and to increase the comfort level for graduates and their guests.
Restriction on bags, backpacks, laptops, etc.
All items brought into the Amphitheater and other University venues are subject to inspection. The following items are prohibited and should be left at home or in your car:
- Bags (including gift bags);
- Briefcases;
- Wrapped presents;
- Backpacks;
- Computers/Laptops/Tablets;
- Food or beverages;
- Laser pointers or similar items;
- Balloons, beach balls;
- Fireworks.
We very much appreciate your patience and understanding as we take the steps necessary to ensure a safe, enjoyable and memorable weekend. We look forward to sharing this very special day with you.
