Security and Safety

The security and safety of our graduates and guests is a top priority. Below is some important information about our policies.

Security

To ensure the safety of all graduates and their guests, security measures will be in effect for all commencement ceremonies

Please review the clear bag policy (PDF) and prohibited items list below before arriving. All attendees are encouraged to keep items to a minimum.

We appreciate your cooperation as we work to ensure a smooth, memorable experience for all graduates and guests.

Entry Screening

In compliance with our clear bag policy, all items are subject to inspection upon entry, including diaper bags, nursing equipment, medical bags, and coats. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow adequate time for screening. Personal property and privacy will be respected throughout the screening process.

Additional Security Information

For the safety of everyone, guests are subject to visual inspection of persons, bags, containers, and clothing capable of concealing prohibited items. If a prohibited item is discovered during screening, guests may return the item to their vehicle or dispose of it. Ball State University does not provide storage for personal belongings.

If you observe anything concerning, please notify security personnel immediately. Our goal is to help graduates and guests enter the venues as seamlessly as possible. We recommend arriving early and traveling light.

For graduates: There are no secure places to store personal items before or during the ceremony. Small personal items, such as phones and wallets, must be carried in a pocket or a small bag under the gown. Graduates are not permitted to carry items across the stage other than their diploma cover.

Clear Bag Policy

Ball State University’s clear bag policy (PDF) is in effect for all Commencement Ceremonies to enhance safety and help ensure a smooth, secure experience for all graduates and guests.

The policy is designed to streamline entry and ensure consistent security practices across all Ball State Commencement venues, including the Quad, Worthen Arena, and Emens Auditorium.

Permissible bags include:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12".
• Small clutch bags, no larger than 4.5" x 6.5", with or without a handle or strap.
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bags or similar).
• Spectators will be allowed to carry other items into the stadium, such as binoculars, non-professional cameras and smart phones, etc., but cases for these items are not permitted.
• Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items as well as diaper bags, after proper inspection.

Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to:

• Large purses
• Coolers
• Backpacks and briefcases
• Fanny packs
• Mesh bags
• Tinted or pattern-designed plastic bags
• Any bag larger than the permissible size

Non-compliant bags may not be placed into acceptable bags. Oversized bags may not be rolled, folded or otherwise manipulated to meet the sizing requirements.

Weapon Detection Systems

To ensure a secure and orderly entry experience, our facility utilizes weapon detection systems that are fully OSHA-compliant and safe for individuals with electronic medical devices, including pacemakers.

Visitors are encouraged to observe all posted entry procedure signs, which outlines expectations, permissible and prohibited items, and step-by-step screening guidance. Please return any prohibited items to your vehicle prior to entering. For your safety and the safety of others, all instructions provided by signage and staff must be followed at all times. These measures help us maintain a secure environment while ensuring a smooth and respectful screening process for everyone.

Your cooperation in following posted signage and staff instructions is essential to ensuring everyone’s safety.

All staff and volunteers working commencement will be subject to security screening measures.

Prohibited Items 

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the venue. Alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited at all commencement ceremonies.
• Helium balloons
• Unauthorized drones
• All bags/packages larger than 16”x16”
• Projectile objects
• All large signs/banners larger than 11"x17"
• Any pole-mounted flags/signs
• Laser pointers
• Weapons
• Coolers
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vapes
• All objects deemed inappropriate for any event venue

Thank you for helping us maintain a celebratory and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

Permitted Areas

Only graduates and Commencement personnel will be permitted in designated graduate areas. No guests, including children, will be permitted in the graduate seating or on stage.

Severe Weather

The safety of our graduates, guests, and staff is our highest priority. Commencement ceremonies will proceed as scheduled unless weather conditions pose a significant risk to public safety.

In the event of severe weather- including lightning, high winds, or other hazardous conditions-Ball State University will follow established emergency protocols. Updates or changes to the ceremony schedule will be communicated promptly via:

• The official Ball State website
• University social media (X, Instagram, and Facebook)
• RAVE: Web alert, text messages, @ Ball State alert, digital slides, and email notifications
• On-site announcements
• Media outlets: WBST, WLBC, WCRD, WMHD, The Star Press and The Daily News