Due to increased security procedures, large bags, backpacks, and purses will no longer be permitted at any UT Commencement ceremony, and all other bags may be searched.

It is highly encouraged that graduates and their guests leave large bags in their vehicles, hidden in the trunks.  If guests bring large bags to the ceremonies they may be denied access to the venue.  They would then be late to the ceremony after making a trip to deposit them in the car and then coming back to the venue.

Graduates, please let all of your guests know about this policy.  If your guests do not read English please make a special point to tell them, as they will not be able to read the signs that will be posted around campus and the garages.

The new security procedures for the UT-wide ceremony can be found online.

Please note that these are merely safety precautions.  There have been no threats to campus so there is no cause for alarm.  The University is just exercising caution. 

For questions regarding safety at the UT-wide ceremony on Saturday May 18, please contact the Office of University Events at (512) 471-7753 or UniversityEvents@austin.utexas.edu.

Please contact the MPA Program Office at MPAEvents@mccombs.utexas.edu regarding safety at the MPA Commencement and reception on Friday May 18.

General safety procedures for the UT campus can be found on the UTPD website.  http://www.utexas.edu/police/

Submitted by Madeline Chauvin