The cancellation of USC’s primary commencement ceremony on May 10 has been announced.
This decision comes after a series of events that began with the university’s refusal to allow valedictorian Asna Tabassum to deliver her speech due to opposition from pro-Israel groups.
President Carol Folt has been in the spotlight as USC navigates the controversy. The cancellation of the main graduation event is seen as an effort to ease tensions that have arisen from the university’s gradual removal of traditional commencement elements, drawing criticism from both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel factions.
The sudden cancellation is attributed to logistical challenges, with USC citing the need for increased time to process the large number of guests due to new safety measures.
This has made it impossible to host the main stage ceremony that typically accommodates 65,000 attendees within a short window from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Despite the silence from President Folt on the matter, USC has acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the cancellation.
The university has confirmed that 23 satellite graduation ceremonies will proceed as planned across different schools and colleges, with smaller departmental gatherings complementing these events.
The university has announced that despite any disappointment, they are enhancing the commencement experience by introducing new activities and celebrations to ensure it is academically significant, memorable, and uniquely USC.
These additions include designated areas for gathering with family, friends, faculty, and staff, the symbolic release of doves, and performances by the Trojan Marching Band.
In addition, all commencement events will take place from May 8-11, with campus access limited to specific entry points.
USC has also decided that each graduating student will receive only eight tickets for guests. An appeal process will be available for those requiring additional tickets, with guests expected to undergo security checks similar to those at the Coliseum for athletic events, including metal detectors and X-ray bag inspections.
