Security

Commencement Ceremony Security

OSU-Cascades strives to provide an enjoyable and safe experience for all who attend the Commencement ceremony.

Guest Services staff and Campus Safety will provide security during the event and conduct security checks to ensure the safety of all guests.

OSU-Cascades has a Clear Bag Policy. All graduates and guests attending the 2025 Commencement ceremony must follow this policy. Thank you for planning ahead.

Clear Bag Policy

  • Clear bags are required to enter the commencement ceremony venue.
  • Guest Services and security staff may search clear bags, diaper bags, strollers, wheelchairs and guests at the ticket tent.
  • All graduates and guests attending OSU-Cascades Commencement Ceremony must follow the Clear Bag Policy.
    • Guests who arrive at the entrance with a prohibited bag will not be permitted on to the oval green and will need to return their bags to their vehicles.
    • No bag check is provided at Commencement.

 

A chart with clear bag policy

APPROVED ITEMS

  • Baby bottles
  • Banners, signs and flags
    • Banners, signs and/or flags must be handheld, cannot obstruct the views of others, and cannot be attached to a pole.
    • Banners, signs and/or flags are prohibited if they contain any content that:
      • violates OSU’s non-discrimination policy by targeting groups of individuals based on race/ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, age or disability
      • includes swear words
      • includes obscene images
      • is directed negatively towards individuals on-site
    • Binoculars
    • Blankets
    • Cameras for still photography
    • Clear bags no larger than 12”x6”x12” or a one-gallon clear plastic storage bag
    • Empty water bottles (non-glass)
      • Please note that water bottles containing liquid will not be allowed into any OSU facility
    • Medically required liquids
    • Necessary personal effects such as keys, wallets, make-up, scorecards, etc.
    • Outside food for dietary/medical needs and for children who do not require a ticket (2 and under)
    • Plastic or cardboard toy chainsaws (after proper inspection)
    • Seat cushions
    • Service animals
    • Small clutch bags that do not exceed 4.5” x 8.5” (approx. the size of a hand), with or without a handle or strap
    • Umbrellas that fit within a clear bag (please note that umbrellas may not be opened within any facility and are subject to confiscation if opened).

All allowable items are subject to search. Any item not on the approved items list will not be allowed into any OSU facility.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

OSU-Cascades complies with all Department of Homeland Security prohibited items policies. For the safety and security of all guests, any item not on the approved items list will not be allowed into the Oval Green for the 2025 Commencement ceremony, including the following items:

  • Non-clear backpacks
  • Balloons
  • Bags larger than 4.5” x 8.5”
  • Purses larger than 4.5” x 8.5”
  • Alcohol
  • Food from outside vendors
  • Drinks from outside vendors
  • Glass containers
  • Metal cans
  • Coolers
  • Flags or signs on poles or sticks
  • Weapons of any kind including firearms and knives
  • Fireworks or explosives
  • Flammable materials
  • Pets (service animals are permitted)
  • Live beavers
  • Chainsaws
  • Drones
  • Tobacco products
    • Includes electric cigarettes or vapor products
  • Strollers
  • Wrapped gifts

Note: Guests declining inspection or in possession of prohibited items will not be allowed onto the Oval Green. Guests in possession of prohibited items inside the Oval Green will be asked to leave immediately. Guests who do not leave when asked will be considered a trespasser. Guests who are disruptive during the ceremony will be removed from the Oval Green immediately.