Chicano Commencement

54th Annual Chicano Commencement

Registration is now closed.

What to Wear

Guest Tickets

Although guest tickets will not be required to attend, due to limited capacity, we are asking each graduate to limit the number of guests to 12 people (ages 3+). Children under the age of 3 will not be included in this guest limit. 

Due to this, we encourage graduates and their guests to arrive to the venue the day of the event as early as possible (doors open at 8AM) as there is a possibility of us reaching seating capacity. Limiting guests to 12 people per graduate ensures all guests will be guaranteed admission into the venue. We appreciate your cooperation with this ask. 

Event Parking

SJSU faculty, staff, and students with valid parking permits do not need to purchase separate parking permits to attend Chicano Commencement. Confirmed graduate participants received an email with instructions on how to redeem their complimentary parking permits.

Guests of the graduates are encouraged to purchase parking permits in advance by visiting: https://www.joinoffstreet.com/sjsu-spring-commencement-2024. Pre-purchase price is $4.00 and then it's $10.00 on the day of. We highly encourage graduates and guests to park in the North or West Parking structures as traffic getting into the South Parking Garage will be heavy. ADA parking is available on the first floor of the South Garage and its the closest to the Provident Credit Union Event Center. 

Chicano Commencement Schedule

The program can last up to 2 hours. A detailed scheduled will be sent to participating graduates by Sunday, May 19, 2024.

Below is the Program Overview:

8:15-8:50AM: Pre ceremony: Mariachi performance 

9-11AM: Ceremony: Danza, Welcome Remarks, Keynote speeches, and graduate processional. 

11:15 AM-1 PM: Reception. All graduates and guests are invited to join us inside of the Compean Diaz Student Union Ballroom for very light refreshments. We will have pan dulce and cafe. A few performances by Grupo Folkorico Luna & Sol and photobooth opportunities to capture this moment. 

What NOT to bring to the Venue

Commencement is a "Clear Bag Policy" [pdf] event. [pdf] For the safety and enjoyment of all attendees, the following items are not permitted at the event center venue:

NO Professional Recording Equipment – Photo Video, or Audio (No Detachable Lenses, Tripods, Big Zooms or Commercial Use Rigs)
NO Drones or airborne flying devices
NO Helium Balloons
NO Artificial noise-making devices, horns, air horns
NO Inflatable balls, frisbees, tortillas, etc.
NO Confetti or streamers
NO Skateboards, scooters, rollerblades
NO Signs or banners larger than 3’ x 5’ and must be foldable (if a banner is brought, it will be inspected before being admitted. It may not be attached to any railings, fencing, etc. Must be held only)
NO Coolers, hard sided coolers
NO Outside Food or Beverages (Including Alcohol, Fruit and Candy)
NO Illegal Substances, Drugs or Drug Paraphernalia
NO Tobacco Products or Paraphernalia
NO Markers, Pens or Spray Paint
NO Laser Pointers
NO Solid Backpacks, Purses or Bags (anything over 10" x 10") with the exception of a diaper bag that must accompany the child that uses it, and is subject to search (see our clear bag policy [pdf]) [pdf]
NO Weapons of Any Kind (includes Pocket Knives, Pepper Spray, Personal Protection Devices, Fireworks, etc.)
NO Items deemed to be dangerous or inappropriate by management that may disrupt other attendees' enjoyment of the event
NO Pets are permitted at this event. ADA service animals are allowed.
Please note the following
There is no public storage for prohibited items, nor can any items be held by the event staff.
SJSU is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
All guests will be subject to search, which may include the use of electronic devices, pat downs and inspections of bags.
Guests are discouraged from bringing unnecessary items to the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. When is the last day to register for Chicano Commencement? 

A. Friday, May 17, 2024

Q. I am expected to graduate Fall 2024. Can I participate in the Spring 2024 Chicano Commencement?

A. Unfortunately, we do not have capacity to invite graduates expected to complete their degrees in the Fall 2024. Folks with an anticipated grad term of Fall 2024 will be invited to attend the Spring 2025 Chicano Commencement Ceremony.