The University of Southern California has announced a unique “family graduate celebration” scheduled for May 9, following the cancellation of the main graduation ceremony. The decision to cancel the main stage graduation was made due to the anticipated 65,000 attendees and the time required to process them under the new safety measures implemented by the university.
The safety measures were put in place following numerous arrests on USC’s campus in connection with ongoing protests. Additionally, the university faced controversy after rescinding valedictorian Asna Tabassum's invitation to speak at the ceremony.
The alternative event will take place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum at 11:30 p.m. ET. The celebration promises to be a grand affair, featuring drone shows, fireworks, surprise performances, and the iconic Trojan Marching Band, as detailed in the announcement on USC’s website.
The announcement encourages graduates to attend with their families and loved ones to commemorate their achievements in a significant way and unite as a Trojan Family. The presentation of degrees will occur during commencement ceremonies held by individual schools within the university.
