Tarleton State University continues to review its policies to enhance public safety and improve efficiencies as it relates to university events. Limiting the size and style of bags carried into commencement ceremonies aids in maintaining safe and secure environments, decreases the time waiting to enter venues, and improves the overall event experience.
Guests with a prohibited bag will not be permitted inside the venue. Guests with prohibited bags will need to return their bags to their vehicle and transfer their belongings to an approved clear plastic bag before entering the venue.
Entrances at Memorial Stadium will allow for screening of any medically necessary items or equipment not able to fit within the bag policy requirements, as well as media personnel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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.
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 guests bring stadium seats or chairbacks?
Guests can bring stadium seats and seat cushions into the stadium, however seats/cushions must fit within the designed family space.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Will clear bags be available for purchase on site?
No. Guests should be responsible for their own clear bags.
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.
Contact Us
Our goal is to create a safe, enjoyable commencement experience for our graduates and guests. If you have questions please email [email protected].