Commencement is a time to commemorate your academic achievements, life experiences and the friendships you have built throughout your time at DePaul. It is a celebration for your family, friends and everyone who has supported you during this journey. We appreciate your help in ensuring this is a safe and celebratory event for all attendees.
Commencement ceremonies have been the site of free expression and peaceful protest for decades and will likely continue to be. In alignment with the Guiding Principles for Speech and Expression (PDF), DePaul does not attempt to prevent peaceful protests or free expression. However, the university will not tolerate any behavior that impedes other guests and graduates from participating in the commencement ceremonies.
Commencement ceremonies will include:
- Ticketing: Tickets are required for all guests attending DePaul commencement ceremonies. The tickets are general admission and seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, as has been the practice. Visit the Ticketing page for more information.
- Security screening: Screening includes enforcement of a bag policy for both the Chicago Theatre and Wintrust Arena. Visit the Purse and Bag Policy section for details. The policy is the same for both venues.
- Disruption response: DePaul and venue staff will respond to disruptions, beginning with warnings and requests to respect the importance of the celebrations for our graduates and their families. Staff will ask those who prevent others from participating in, hearing or seeing the ceremony to leave. Refusal to cooperate will result in removal from the venue.
Our goal is to support a successful and celebratory event worthy of the achievements of our extraordinary graduates. For additional information, please review university leadership's shared expectations for our DePaul community and the updated demonstration guidelines.