In the wake of a controversy surrounding the valedictory address and pro-Palestinian demonstrators on campus, the University of Southern California on Thursday announced its main graduation ceremony will not be held.
“With the new safety measures in place this year, the time needed to process the large number of guests coming to campus will increase substantially,” the school wrote in an announcement. “As a result, we will not be able to host the main stage ceremony that traditionally brings 65,000 students, families, and friends to our campus all at the same time and during a short window from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.”
School officials said they plan to post details of their updated commencement plans on the graduation website by April 30.
“We understand that this is disappointing; however, we are adding many new activities and celebrations to make this commencement academically meaningful, memorable, and uniquely USC, including places to gather with family, friends, faculty, and staff, the celebratory releasing of the doves, and performances by the Trojan Marching Band,” the statement said.
The school has undergone a turbulent few weeks recently.
First, school officials cited “safety concerns” in canceling the valedictory address of Asna Tabassum.
Then, on Wednesday, the campus was closed after protesters — some students, some not — skirmished with police during a pro-Palestine demonstration.