Know Before You Go

Clear Bag Policy

OSU-Cascades has a Clear Bag Policy. All graduates and guests attending the 2024 Commencement ceremony must follow this policy. Thank you for planning ahead.

Plan Ahead for Commencement Day

  • Arrive early to OSU-Cascades
  • Allow plenty of time to park

  • Do not bring prohibited items

 

Parking

Visit the Location and Parking page for details.

 

What Not To Bring

A Clear Bag Policy will be in effect for Commencement. Campus Security may conduct bag searches at the event.

  • All graduates and guests attending the 2025 Commencement ceremony must follow this policy.
  • All graduates and guests will be asked to return prohibited items to their vehicles.
  • Visit the Clear Bag Policy page for more information.
  • Review the list of prohibited items (see below) ahead of time.

 

Seating

  • Seating is first-come, first-served.
  • Reserved seating is not available.
  • Graduates will be seated on the field by degree program.
  • Seating accommodations are available for guests with mobility concerns or disabilities. Contact commencement@osucascades.edu if you require accommodations.
  • Sign language interpreters will be available.

 

Food and Beverages

  • Some food and beverage concessions will be available in the Student Succes Center on the day of Commencement.

  • To support sustainability efforts, graduates and guests are encouraged to bring empty water bottles. Water bottle filling stations will be available at the event.

 

Weather

  • Commencement is a rain-or-shine event.
  • Umbrellas must fit within a clear bag and cannot be opened once the Processional starts.
  • Open umbrellas are not permitted during the ceremony.
  • Please come prepared for the weather.
    • For sun: Sunscreen, hats and visors are suggested.
    • For rain: Ponchos or raincoats are advised.

 

Prohibited Items

For the safety and security of graduates and guests, the following items are prohibited at the Commencement ceremony.

  • Drones
  • Alcohol
  • Flags, signage, posters, fliers, or banners prohibited (in event seating area)
  • Balloons (in event seating area)
  • Umbrellas (in event seating area)
  • Artificial noise makers or horns
  • Weapons of any kind including firearms and knives
  • Fireworks or explosives
  • Pets, including dogs (service animals permitted)
  • Tobacco products
    • Includes electric cigarettes or vapor products