Safety and Security
Commencement season is a time to enjoy and celebrate our graduates’ accomplishments. To respect the spirit and importance of this event, we have specific guidance that all attendees must follow.
We are determined to make this a special day for all of our graduates. Thank you for helping us make our commencement experience truly exceptional.
During the Event
Most importantly, we will not allow any disruption preventing speakers from delivering their remarks or the ceremony proceeding as scheduled.
All participants and guests attending commencement understand and agree to follow the responsibilities outlined in all college policies, including the Student Code of Conduct. Students found in violation will possibly risk the conferral of their degree.
Purchase College is committed to ensuring the safety of our students and campus community while preserving the freedom of expression. For more information on our freedom of expression policies, please visit our College Commitment to Freedom of Speech page.
Failure to respect these policies may jeopardize your ability to participate in or attend the ceremony.
Ticket Policy
Anyone entering the venue must have a ticket. There are no exceptions. The commencement venue will be closed to the general public.
There will be no re-entry. Once you are in the building and decide to leave, you will not be allowed back in.
Pet Policy
No pets will be allowed who are not trained service dogs that work to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability.
Only service animals defined by federal regulations will be allowed. Assistance animals (or emotional support animals) are not included in federal regulations. The college is committed to ensuring that commencement is accessible to everyone.
Banned Items
Please note: metal detectors will be in use at the commencement venue.
The following items will not be allowed inside:
- Flags, signs, or banners
- Graduation cap/mortarboard messages may not be offensive and may not include language that is discriminatory
- Only approved regalia are allowed
- Balloons
- Bags or backpacks (small clutches allowed)
- Noise-making devices
- Outside food or drink
- Coolers, bottles, cans, or hydration packs (i.e. Camelbacks)
- Video or audio recording equipment
- Professional photography equipment
- Laser pointers
- Large umbrellas
- Fireworks
- Selfie sticks and action cameras (i.e. GoPros)
- Hoverboards, skateboards, and rollerblades
- Illegal drugs and alcohol
- E-cigarettes
- Weapons of any kind, including lawfully concealed firearms
- Pepper spray
- Drones
- Any item deemed to compromise public safety
Failure to comply may jeopardize your ability to participate in or attend the ceremony.