Tarleton State University Commencements enforce a clear bag policy for all events held within the venue. This policy assists in maintaining a safe and secure environment and decreases the wait time to enter the venue.
Guests with a prohibited bag will not be permitted inside the venue. Guests with prohibited bags will be asked to return their bags to their vehicle and transfer their belongings to an approved clear plastic bag before entering the venue.
Every guests with a ticket for entry is permitted to bring in one (1) approved clear bag. Diaper bags are not permitted. Everything that would be put into a diaper bag must now be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, is permitted to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the venue.
Medically necessary items or equipment that is not able to fit within the bag policy, as well as media personnel will undergo additional screening. Screened and approved medical or media bags will be tagged prior to entry.
In the case that Commencement moves inside the EECU Center, please see the clear bag policy and prohibited items for the EECU Center.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will clear bags be available for purchase on site?
No. Guests should be responsible for their own clear bags.
What happens if a guest shows up at the gate with a bag that is not permitted?
Guests will not be allowed to enter a venue with a non-conforming bag. Guests will be asked to return items to their vehicle.
How many bags may each person bring into the stadium?
One large clear bag — either a one-gallon clear resealable plastic bag or a 14” x 6” x 14” clear bag — plus a small clutch. The larger clear bag must be a standard 14” x 6” x 14” made of clear PVC vinyl and visually searchable. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and is also easily searched.
If I have special medical equipment I need to have with me at all times, where do I put that?
An exception will be made for medical necessary items after proper inspection at entrance areas.
Are all purses prohibited?
No. Small clutch purses, with or without a handle or strap, no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ are permitted. Purses larger than this are not permitted.
What about diaper bags?
Everything that you would put into a diaper bag must now be carried in a clear bag. Each member of a family, including children, is allowed to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse into the stadium.
Can smartphones, tablets, binoculars or cameras be carried SEPARATELY from the clear bag?
Yes. Phones, cameras or binoculars may be carried in by hand. Cases for these items are not allowed.
Do I have to put everything I’m carrying into a permissible bag?
No. We are limiting only the type of bags carried into the venue, not items that you normally bring to an event. Therefore, you may carry items in your pockets or jacket (keys, makeup, feminine products, comb, phone, wallet, credit cards, etc). You also may carry binoculars and/or a camera around your neck or in your hands (without the case, of course). You may use the clear bag and clutch to carry other items. Every member of your family may carry in a permissible bag.
Can guests bring stadium seats or chair backs?
Guests can bring stadium seats and seat cushions* into the stadium, however seats/cushions must fit within the designed family space.
*In case of inclement weather, stadium seats are prohibited within the EECU center.
What about bringing blankets in cold weather?
Guests will be able to bring blankets by tossing them over a shoulder or arm as they arrive at the gate. These items can be easily screened.
Why has this bag policy been adopted?
This is about both safety and improving the overall event experience. Tarleton State University frequently reviews its public safety and stadium security policies looking for ways to improve.
How does the new policy improve public safety?
The clear bag is easily and quickly searched and greatly reduces faulty bag searches. It also supports the Department of Homeland Security’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign.
How is the new policy more convenient for guests?
The clear bags will enable security to move guests through the entry gate much faster than having lines of ushers checking guest bags. A standard-size bag eliminates the need for bag templates to check bag sizes. Clear bags allow staff to be more efficient and effective in keeping you safe by preventing dangerous items from entering the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The items outlined below are prohibited from entering the Commencement area.
- Bags or cases of any kind that do not meet the bag policy
- Prohibited weapons
- Outside food & drink
- Lighters
- Wrapped / enclosed gifts or packaged
- Flammable liquids or aerosol cans
- Illegal drugs
- Projectiles
- Glass or metal containers, bottles, flasks or water bottles of any type
- Flashlights, laser pointers, glow sticks, flares or fireworks
- Balloons, balls, beach balls, etc.
- Noise Making Devices (i.e. air horns, whistles, bells, vuvuzelas, etc.)
- Alternative Transportation (bicycles, scooters, skateboards, skate shoes, etc.)
- Large signs, signs with glitter, flags, poles and large banners
- Selfie Sticks
- Tobacco Products (of any kind) including electronic cigarettes or vaping devices
- Ice Chests
- Umbrellas (unless they collapse and are no longer than 18”)
- Canopies
- Strollers (the exception being umbrella strollers)
- Glitter
- Pets (except for service animals as outlined in the SAP)
Contact Us
Our goal is to create a safe, enjoyable commencement experience for our graduates and guests. If you have questions please email graduation@tarleton.edu.