Commencement Entry Procedures & What To Expect

Commencement should feel safe, smooth, and stress-free for everyone attending. That’s why the University has clear bag guidelines and a few quick screening steps for graduates and guests. These measures are becoming standard at universities and venues across the country for larger events and help keep the event secure while also reducing wait times at the doors. If you’re wondering what’s allowed, what to bring, or how the process works, below are some helpful Commencement Entry FAQs to guide you through it.

Why does Cal Poly Humboldt have clear bag guidelines?

To enhance safety and expedite event entry. Clear bags allow for quicker visual inspections, reducing wait times and improving the overall experience for graduates and guests. These measures are becoming standard at universities and venues across the country for larger events and help keep the event secure while also reducing wait times at the doors.

Who must adhere to the clear bag guidelines?

Everyone participating on Commencement must go through a security checkpoint to enter the Commencement venue, this includes guests, graduates, faculty, and staff. Anyone accessing the venue and security perimeter must undergo a security screening which includes a non-touch visual search and bags checks for those wishing to bring in items, and clear bags will help them move through lines more quickly.

What qualifies as a clear bag?

A bag made of fully transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC. Logos are allowed as long as the rest of the bag is completely see-through.

What size bags are allowed?

• Clear bags larger than 8.5” x 6” are permitted.
• Opaque bags must be 8.5” x 6” or smaller.

Are backpacks, tote bags, or camera bags allowed?

No. Oversized opaque bags—such as backpacks, tote bags, large purses, or camera bags—are prohibited.

What if I need to bring a medical item, diaper bag, or a stroller?

Accommodations will be made for medically necessary items, diaper bags, and strollers. These items will be subject to inspection.

What additional items are prohibited?

• Weapons: firearms/simulated firearms, knives, ammunition, tasers/stun guns or similar, mace/pepper spray
• Outside food (except baby food) or beverages
• Empty metal or glass water containers
• Gas masks and/or shields
• Fireworks, explosive/incendiary devices, aerosols/pressurized cans, lighters
• Drugs, alcohol, tobacco products
• Animals except for service animals
• Laser pointers
• Drones

Where should I leave items that aren’t allowed?

Please leave prohibited or oversized items at home, in your vehicle, or with someone not attending the ceremony.

Will there be storage for opaque bags or prohibited items?

No storage will be available. Items that do not meet the guidelines will not be admitted.

Do graduates, faculty, and staff really need to arrive without their gowns on?

Yes. To streamline screening, graduates, faculty, and staff must carry (not wear) their gowns through the security entry points. Gowns may be put on immediately after the no-touch visual search and entry to the graduate lineup area. Mirrors will be available in the lineup area so final adjustments can be made before the ceremony.

What is a no-touch visual search?

A quick inspection where staff visually confirm that no prohibited items are being brought into the ceremony. No physical contact is made.