Graduates and guests look forward to this milestone with excitement and anticipation. For many guests, Commencement is their first visit to our campus. The ceremony and appropriate behavior by the graduates and their guests will create positive memories for all who attend. 

Permitted Areas

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

Security

All bags are subject to search by event staff and University Police. For security purposes, all attendees are encouraged to keep items to a minimum.

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.

Prohibited Items 

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

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

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