Chico State Commencement

Code of Conduct & Safety Precautions

Student Code of Conduct

Graduating students who intend to walk in the Commencement ceremonies will have to agree to abide by the Commencement Code of Conduct when they register to participate in the ceremonies.

Graduate then Celebrate

Graduate Then Celebrate

Respect and Protect the Graduation Ceremony

Graduation is as much about you as it is about honoring those who helped you along the way. Make this a positive, memorable experience for your friends and family.

  • Be prompt and prepared
    • Arrive at the staging area at the time you are assigned.
    • Arriving well in advance of the ceremony start time, with your cap, gown, and Wildcat ID card, will ensure your admittance to the stadium and that you can sit with friends.
    • Students who are late or without the required regalia will not be allowed inside the stadium.
  • Celebrate after the ceremony
    • Students under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any controlled substance will not be allowed in the stadium.
    • Alcohol, drugs, controlled substances, and tobacco are prohibited anywhere on campus, including University Stadium.
    • Students under the influence will be required to leave. Your friends and family will not get to watch you graduate.
  • Honor other people’s experiences
    • For most graduates, the ceremony is the greatest achievement of their lives thus far, and the proudest moment for their friends and family. Be respectful of others and follow directions so everyone can enjoy the ceremony with dignity and honor.
    • Students unable to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner will be required to leave. Your friends and family will not get to watch you graduate.
  • Stay until the end
    • Remain seated in your chair unless instructed otherwise, and stay until the ceremony has ended and the platform party has departed the stadium.

Student Identification

Students must bring their Wildcat Identification Card with them to Commencement.

Academic Regalia

Only approved regalia may be worn at commencement. Apparel deemed inappropriate may be confiscated.

Although CSU, Chico does not anticipate any security problems during commencement, we take special measures to ensure the safety of graduates, faculty, and guests at the ceremonies. Please observe the following for the commencement activities:

Prohibited Materials

The following materials are prohibited in University Stadium: Pets (Service Animals excepted), Alcohol, Drugs, Weapons, and Glass Containers.

Please do not bring items that block the view or disturb the enjoyment of other students or guests. These include large signs, poles, flags, balloons, umbrellas, artificial noisemakers, air horns or megaphones.

Smoking is not allowed in University Stadium.

While backpacks, bags, and large purses are allowed, they may be subject to search.

Animals at Commencement

While we allow guests who utilize service animals at commencement, it is inappropriate for animals not trained to deal with large crowds, noise, and confusion to be part of the celebration. Comfort or emotional support animals are NOT allowed at commencement. If you have any questions, please contact the Chico State ADA Coordinator at (530) 898-5959. California State Law prohibits misrepresenting a dog as a service animal and prohibits leaving an animal inside a confined vehicle unattended, so for the safety and comfort of the animals and our guests, it is important that pets be left at home. We are sorry, but guests who insist on bringing pets to the ceremonies will be asked to leave immediately. No exceptions will be made for graduates or guests.

Student Staging Area

Only students will be allowed in the staging area (the grass field in between University and Nettleton Stadiums). Students will need to show their student identification to gain entry into the staging area.

Photography & Videography

While photography and videotaping of the ceremony is permissible, please do not block the view of others. Photographers may not enter the graduates seating area or the elderly and disabled seating area.

These policies are subject to change without notice.