To ensure the safety of all graduates and their guests, heightened security measures will be in effect May 15-18 throughout Commencement Weekend ceremonies and events. Anyone who sees anything suspicious should immediately contact the BUPD at 617-353-2121.
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.
– 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.
– Ticket are required for entrance to the All-University Commencement on Nickerson Field.
We thank you for your cooperation with these important precautions.