As caps flew and cameras flashed across campuses nationwide, one important question remains for college administrators, event staff, and public safety teams: How did your venue handle safety during graduation?

With thousands of family members, faculty, and students gathered in one place, commencement ceremonies are high-pressure environments for both celebration and security. Schools like the University of Southern California, which celebrated over 18,000 graduates in May 2025, and George Mason University, which honored nearly 11,800 graduates last year, host massive events that draw tens of thousands of guests in addition to students for graduation ceremonies. These large-scale gatherings underscore the importance of careful safety coordination. Ensuring a smooth and safe experience requires thoughtful planning and the right tools in place.

At successful graduations this spring, we saw:

• Clearly defined entry points with proper signage
• Visible security presence
• Smart use of technology to detect weapons without creating bottlenecks
• Real-time communication across security, staff, and emergency response teams

This kind of proactive planning helps campuses stay ahead of potential risks without turning a proud moment into a stressful one.

OPENGATE for Colleges

For colleges seeking to enhance security without compromising efficiency, OPENGATE provides a modern solution. This portable weapons detection system from CEIA USA is specifically designed for large events, such as graduation. It screens for firearms and other mass casualty threats as guests walk through with no need to stop, empty pockets, or disrupt the flow.

OPENGATE allows colleges to maintain open, welcoming entryways while still providing advanced protection. That means families, faculty, and graduates can focus on what matters, celebrating a milestone, without being distracted by long lines or intrusive screening.

Planning Ahead

If graduation security didn’t go as smoothly as expected, now’s the time to reassess. Better preparation starts with the right partners and the right technology. OPENGATE is already being used at universities across the country to support safe, successful events, and it’s ready to help you next year, too.