Come Celebrate

commencement

Expressive Freedom

Swarthmore is deeply committed to freedom of expression, including the freedom to protest and dissent peacefully. Our ability to understand and engage with diverse views is critical to Swarthmore’s educational experience. This freedom comes with the responsibility of respecting the freedom of others, and others’ ability to express or not express their ideas.

Commencement is an exciting milestone that allows us to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our graduates with family and friends. It is also an official College event, and we ask for your cooperation and understanding in maintaining a celebratory atmosphere throughout the ceremony. Graduates and guests may be asked to leave, or escorted from the venue, if they create prolonged disruptions or otherwise impede others’ participation in this significant, celebratory event.

Permissible/Non Permissible Items

We welcome flowers, cameras, cellphones, empty refillable water bottles, strollers, and other personal items that will contribute to your enjoyment of Commencement. Please note that the Mann Center only allows bags that are 12"x6"x12" or smaller, and that all bags are subject to search.

These items, and any additional items that the Mann Center determines as a safety hazard or otherwise unacceptable, are not allowed inside the venue. Please review the Mann Center’s FAQ for more information before attending Commencement. Thank you!

  • Helium balloons
  • Posters larger than 8.5”x11”
  • Weapons of any kind, including pepper spray / mace
  • Selfie sticks
  • Cigarette lighters / vaping devices
  • Outside food, beverages, and alcohol
  • Cans, kegs and mini-kegs
  • Glass containers of any kind
  • Long stick umbrellas / golf umbrellas / umbrellas with point
  • iPads / Tablets / Laptops
  • Drones / GoPros
  • Tents / canopies / camping equipment
  • Bags that do not comply with the Mann's bag policy
  • Laser pointers
  • Costume masks
  • Illegal drugs
  • Animals (service animals are welcome)
  • Musical instruments / noisemakers / bullhorns