Convocation Center Policies

Accessible Parking

• Accessible parking spaces are located in all parking lots and concentrated closest to the entrance that the parking lot is associated with.  See parking map for specific locations.  Parking attendants will assist with directions.

Accessible Seating

• Accessible seating is available at entry level on the main concourse of the arena.  See our arena map for locations.  Accessible seating is available on a first come, first served basis.  Usher staff is available to assist with accessing this seating area.

Banners and Signs

• Banners and signs are allowed provided they are hand-held of reasonable size, can be stored beneath the seat and do not block the view of other patrons. 

Bottles/Cans

• It is permissible for guests to bring into the Convocation Center one bottled water, provided it is in a clear plastic commercial container (such as an Aquafina bottle) no larger than 1 liter that has not been opened or that is empty of its contents. Frozen bottles are prohibited. It is impermissible to bring in any other type of beverage into the arena.
  • Please refrain from bringing in any other outside beverages (including Starbucks, Dunkin’, and other coffee brands).

Cashless Concessions

• Concessions within the Convocation Center have transitioned to a cashless system. Accepted forms of payment include credit/debit card and mobile wallets.
• Concessions stands will be open when doors open and will close when the ceremony ends

Clear Bag Policy: 

A clear bag policy has been implemented and is enforced at the Convocation Center, the following are permitted:  

• Bags that are clear and do not exceed 12" x 12" x 6".
• Small purses which do not exceed 5.5" x 8.5" and no more than 3” thick.
• An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at the door.

Entrances

• Doors typically open 1 hour prior to the ceremony start time.
• Entrances used for graduations ceremony include the following
  • Entrance 1- Accessible via parking lot C1
  • Entrance 2- accessible via parking lot C2 and PS
  • Entrance 3- accessible via parking lot C2 and C1
  • Entrance 4- Closed for all ceremonies
  • Entrance 5- Accessible via parking lot C4 and C3

First Aid

• Medical services are available at the first aid station located near Entrance 1 on the West side of the Convocation Center.  Please contact your nearest event team member or police officer for assistance.

Flowers

• Flowers are permitted in the Convocation Center.  Flowers with a glass vase will not be allowed in the venue.

Gifts

• Gifts that can be properly searched are permitted in the Convocation Center.  Any gifts that are wrapped/sealed will be asked to be returned to your vehicle.

Graduate Egress

• At the conclusion of the ceremony, graduates will process out the East egress doors of the Convocation Center to reunite with family members outside near Lot C2. (see map)

Outside Food or Drink

• Outside food or drink is not permitted.  Each guest may bring in one commercially sealed or completely empty water bottle.

Parking

• Parking attendants will direct vehicles to the nearest spaces available.  Typically starting by parking in Lot C2, then transitioning to Lot C1 and C3 as lots fill up.  For those that would like a guaranteed close parking space, we offer preferred parking in Lot C4.  Please pay attention to signage and directions given by parking attendants.
  • Accessible parking spaces are located in all parking lots and concentrated closest to the entrance that the parking lot is associated with.  See parking map for specific locations.  Parking attendants will assist with directions.
• There are over 3000 parking spaces surrounding the Convocation Center.  Parking attendants will direct vehicles to the nearest spaces available.  Preferred parking is available in Lot C4 and sold online for advanced sales only.  See map for details.
• Lot C4 is available for preferred parking at $15 per space.  These spaces are advanced sales only online.

Photography

• To ensure a great experience for all, please refrain from standing on the concourse to take pictures.  Please take any photos from your seat, or after the ceremony has ended.

Preferred Parking 

• Preferred parking is available in Lot C4 at $15 per space. Preferred parking gives you guaranteed access to our closest parking with entry at Entrance 5. Preferred parking is sold in advance online only at the NIU Huskies Ticket website.  The link below will direct you to preferred parking. Be sure to select the ceremony you are attending prior to purchasing.

Prohibited Items

• Purses, diaper bags, laptop bags, camera bags, backpacks, duffels, and fanny packs (see Clear Bag Policy)
• Wrapped gifts
• Helium Balloons
• Glass vases or glass containers
• Laser pointers of any kind
• Coolers, bottles, cans, containers, or projectiles
• Weapons, flammables, or other potentially dangerous items
• Aerosol containers or any pressurized container
• Horns, noisemakers, or whistles
• Any illegal substances
• Posters, banners, or signs on sticks
• Golf Umbrellas
• Tripods, monopods, & selfie sticks

Seating

• All seating is general admission for graduation ceremonies.  To ensure a great experience for all, please stay seated during the ceremony and defer from standing and taking pictures in front of other guests.

Strollers

• Strollers are permitted to enter the Convocation Center.  Strollers stored in the main lobby or under seating area will be left at owner’s risk.  Strollers may not be stored in seating area or in aisles.

Umbrella Policy

• Small, collapsable umbrellas may be brought into the Convocation Center.  For the safety and consideration of all guests, large umbrellas will not be allowed in the venue at the discretion of arena management.