Information for family and friends

Jump to: Gate and seating information | ADA accessibility | Lost and found

Gate and seating information

There are no tickets required for Commencement and no limit to the number of guests a graduate may invite. It should not be necessary to arrive early and stand in line prior to the gate opening time as a way to secure seats with a good view. Ted Runner Stadium has grandstand seating capacity for more than 6,000 guests! Gates to the stadium will open 90 minutes prior to the start of each ceremony.

Entry and security

Guests will enter via the Serrao Gate at the southwest corner of the stadium. We reserve the right to inspect any carry-in items.

Prohibited items in Ted Runner Stadium

• No umbrellas
• No inflatables or large signs
• No pets or emotional support animals

While in the stadium

No smoking. All indoor and outdoor events during Commencement are non-smoking events.

Refreshments: For your convenience, drinks and snacks will be available for purchase in Ted Runner Stadium at the concession counters under the stands on both sides of the stadium. They are provided by the University's Town & Gown organization and proceeds benefit Town & Gown scholarships and other programs.

Safety: The aisles in and entryways around Ted Runner Stadium may not be blocked for any reason.

Be prepared for the sun 

Dress appropriately for the day. Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are strongly recommended. Most often, it is warm and sunny and there is very little shade in Ted Runner Stadium. We recommend using sunscreen along with wearing hats and sunglasses! In the event of rain, check back on the University of Redlands Commencement Page.

Livestream

All Commencement ceremonies will be live-streamed for family and friends who are unable to attend these events in person. The live stream will begin at the ceremony start time and will be available on the Commencement Page on the day of the event. The ceremonies will also be live-streamed in Memorial Chapel, should visitors prefer to be on campus but watch the stream indoors.

Accessible parking and other accommodations

The University of Redlands wants to ensure the Commencement Ceremonies are accessible to all. Please use this form to view the accessibility services already provided and request additional accommodations. Deadline for requests is Friday, April 10, 2026.

Guests with mobility accommodations are encouraged to park in the designated ADA parking in the lot behind Memorial Chapel. The car must have a current ADA placard or license plate to park in this area, and you will enter from the corner of University St./Brockton Ave. The University will have golf carts running between the ADA parking lot and the entrance to Ted Runner Stadium.

Lost and found

During the event, lost/found items should be turned in/claimed at the Information Booth at Ted Runner Stadium. Unclaimed items will be stored at the Public Safety Office in the Willis Center.

Dining and lodging

We recommend booking early, as hotel and dining reservations are in high demand and are often booked months before Commencement weekend; see a list of dining options and local hotels.

University Bookstore

For your convenience, the University Bookstore will have items available for purchase inside Ted Runner Stadium.

Bookstore hours | See location

Monday-Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Sunday, Closed

Commencement expectations

Commencement ceremonies at the University of Redlands are the culmination of many years of hard work. It is a time for you, your family, and your friends to recognize and honor your success! 

We ask for your help in making these events a positive experience for everyone. Any misconduct would be an unwelcome disturbance.

All U of R Commencement and graduation ceremonies are alcohol, drug, smoke, vape, and tobacco-free. There will be zero tolerance for disorderly behavior.

Please help us celebrate the Class of 2026 Commencement and graduation ceremonies events respectfully!