A week after canceling its main stage commencement ceremony, USC officials announced a graduation party that will be held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
The “Trojan Family Graduate Celebration” will take place May 9 at 8:30 p.m.
“Count on drone shows, fireworks, surprise performances, the Trojan Marching Band, and a special gift just for the Class of 2024,” according to the school’s announcement.
Each graduate will receive up to six tickets.
University officials said the event was able to happen because “several groups adjusted their plans at the Coliseum to accommodate limited access for this special event."
USC canceled the mainstage graduation due to “new safety measures” that were created due to the ongoing protests on campus. On April 24, 93 people were arrested after pro-Palestinian demonstrators refused to leave the campus.
On Monday and Tuesday, USC President Carol Folt met with protest organizers to discuss what their demands were.
“We brought some very specific proposals that would address concerns they had about the endowment, which they have said is one of their most important issues. I deeply respect the passion they feel for their cause and recognize the pain and suffering taking place in our own community as well as in the Middle East,” Folt said in a statement. "Unfortunately, they seemed more interested in having me issu a political statement in support of their viewpoint as opposed to coming up with practical solutions to resolve the situation."
Security on campus continues to be tight, according to KNX News’ Jon Baird. He said you have to show a student ID or faculty ID just to get on campus and that bag checks are being performed. Any visitors on campus need to get a pass online.
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