Commencement 2023 Safety
Dear Howard University Community,
It is my great privilege to congratulate all of our graduating Bison on their amazing achievement. To everyone who will finish this weekend with a new doctorate, master's, or baccalaureate degree, I know I speak for our entire department when I say that we are proud of your success, and grateful to have played even a small role in this highlight of your academic and professional career.
Commencement is our university's finest hour, and the culmination of the years of hard work by our students, employees, and families around the world pushing scholars to the finish line. All of the people who played a role in our graduates' success will be welcomed to share in this sacred occasion and to help our community at large welcome another cohort of certified Bison into its renowned alumni ranks.
Our department has been preparing for this weekend for many months. We expect to welcome more people to the campus than we have in recent years, thanks to our continuing work to ensure public health protections under revised covid and distancing guidelines. Rest assured that if you encounter any individual engaging in any behavior that is or could become harmful to themselves or others, our uniformed officers and partnering security vendors will be well-positioned to engage, mediate and remove threats from the campus. We are also grateful for the support of our partners with the Secret Service, US Department of Homeland Security, the DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, and the Metropolitan Police Department.
We are asking that all graduates support their families and guests by reminding them of these important safety and security expectations.
- Be responsible. Please follow all directions detailed on campus signage and provided by ushers for parking, access to the commencement site, and processing for the graduates. There will be no exceptions within these rules.
- Arrive on Time. This year's ceremony will require graduates and guests to be subject to certain security protocols. Please be aware of these protocols and prepare for potential delays in admission to the commencement area.
- Secure Your Valuables. Make sure that your vehicles and personal belongings are secured and that all doors to vehicles are locked. Do not leave items in plain view within your vehicle.
- Walk in Groups Along Marked Campus Pathways. Do not attempt to access the campus through alternative driving or walking paths, alleys, or in between buildings. Areas will be obstructed and redirected back to main travel pathways on campus.
- Remember to be Bison Safe. Remember: Bison Safe is the official safety app for Howard University; you can report incidents to keep the campus and yourself safe.
On behalf of the men and women in the Department of Public Safety, we salute the esteemed class of 2023.
Excellence in Truth and Service,
Marcus Lyles
Executive Director for Safety and Security
Chief of Police