Family & Guest Info

Ceremony Guidelines for Attendees

Tickets are required for entry.

We are excited to welcome friends and family to the CDU 2024 Commencement Ceremony. Please see below for important information for our guests for the ceremony. Graduates will have access to 5 guest tickets for the event and can be put on a waiting list for additional tickets on a first come, first serve basis.

The Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science Commencement Ceremony will be held at El Camino College in the indoor Marsee Auditorium at El Camino College (16007 Crenshaw Blvd, Torrance, CA 90506). Visit our Directions and Parking page for more info.

An adult must accompany children under 12 at all times. Children are not permitted to march or sit with graduates. Children remain their parents/guardians’ sole responsibility during their ceremony attendance.

Only University authorized photographers and videographers will be allowed access to the stage and the area in front of the stage. No exceptions.

Anyone bringing prohibited items will be asked to return them to their vehicles, as we do not hold items at the gate.

• NO weapons of any kind (e.g., Guns, Ammo, Pocket Knives, Pepper spray, etc.)
• NO smoking of any kind (includes vaping and e-cigarette products)
• NO alcoholic beverages
• NO drugs or drug paraphernalia
• NO laser pointers
• NO balloons of any kind
• NO beach balls, frisbees, or other inflatable items
• NO confetti, glitter, or Silly String
• NO musical instruments, air horns, or other noise makers of any kind
• NO aerosol products/aerosol cans, glass, aluminum, or metal containers
• NO metal utensils or sharp objects
• NO picnic baskets or coolers
• NO flammable or combustible items
• NO fireworks or explosives
• NO umbrellas or parasols
• NO drones, remote-controlled unmanned aerial vehicles, or other motorized vehicles/devices in the auditorium or on the El Camino campus
• NO animals (except ADA Recognized Service Animals)*

 *Pets are not allowed inside the venue—only Service Animals. Certifications will be verified before entry. Service animals must be:

1. Trained, legitimate ADA and CDPA assistive animals. 
2. With the Handler at all times and remain leashed, tethered, or harnessed, or otherwise under the Handler’s control through voice, signal, or other effective commands.
3. Vaccinated and tagged as a guide, signal, or service dog as legally required. Anyone bringing an animal to the venue will be responsible and liable for any damage or injury caused by the animal.

Any animal posing an immediate or direct threat to the safety or health of others will be removed from the venue. Emotional support or companion animals are not included as Service Animals and will not be permitted inside the venue.