To provide a safe environment for attendees, the University has implemented a clear bag policy and is utilizing metal detectors for graduates and guests attending the Final Exercises ceremonies.
Security enhancements include:
-
Metal detectors: Metal detectors will be used at the designated entrance points into Scott Stadium.
-
Clear Bag Policy: Attendees will only be able to carry the following style and size bag into the stadium:
-
A bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and does not exceed 12”x6”x12”
-
A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
-
One small clutch bag, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap can be taken to the event along with one clear plastic bag.
-
All other bags will not be permitted. A list of prohibited bags includes, but is not limited to: purses, backpacks, drawstring bags that are not clear, briefcases, coolers, fanny packs, luggage, computer bags, camera bags, binocular cases, and diaper bags.
Both graduates and guests attending Final Exercises are encouraged not to bring items that will delay lines to access the stadium.
Prohibited Items at Final Exercises:
- Animals (except service animals)
- Artificial noisemakers
- Balls, frisbees, lacrosse sticks, and similar items
- Containers (including plastic or glass bottles, cups, cans, coolers, or flasks)
- Folding chairs or stools
- Laser pointers
- Outside food and beverages of any kind
- Signs that A) exceed 24x36 inches in size or B) are on sticks/rulers/etc.
- Sticks and poles (including sports equipment)
- Strollers (except for umbrella strollers)*
- Tents**
- Unmanned aircraft systems (including drones)***
- Weapons of any kind, including those carried with a permit, fireworks, and explosives****
* Once in the seating area of Scott Stadium, umbrella strollers should be folded and placed under the seat.
** Only tents (including pop-up tents) arranged by the University are allowed on Central Grounds during Finals Weekend.
*** The only exceptions are those that have been approved by the Office of Major Events.
**** Final Exercises are “educational activities” at which these items are prohibited for members of the University community, general public, and visitors in accordance with University Policy and Regulation.
The University of Virginia reserves the right to prohibit any item deemed hazardous or disruptive to the ceremony or that interferes in the enjoyment of the event by others.
Security Checkpoints
Everyone attending the Final Exercises ceremonies including graduates, faculty, and guests will be subject to security screening before entering Scott Stadium. All bags must be in compliance with the University's clear bag policy and will be subject to search, which may delay entry into the stadium.
Everyone wearing an outer garment such as an academic robe or coat will be asked to open it for a visual inspection. To expedite entry into the assembly areas, graduates and faculty are encouraged to robe after passing through the security checkpoint.
Protests, Demonstrations and Other Expressive Activities
The University of Virginia respects and encourages free expressive activity by its students, faculty, and staff. At the same time, consistent with its educational mission, the University has established reasonable time, place and manner restrictions on such activities on University Grounds to assure that such activities are undertaken in ways that avoid disruption of University operations, and are consistent with its educational, employment, and safety responsibilities to its students, faculty, and staff. The University's policy on protests, demonstrations, and other expressive activities during Finals Weekend is available here.
More detailed information about the security checkpoints and prohibited items is forthcoming. Please continue to revisit this page in the coming weeks.
Last Updated: May 3, 2021
Printer-friendly version