Some UC Irvine Students Annoyed By Strict Commencement Rules
IRVINE (CBSLA.com) — Some students at UC Irvine are irritated by the strict security rules at this weekend's commencement at Angel Stadium.
KCAL9's Brittney Hopper said the university sent out an email to graduates with a list of dozens of items, including signs, large handbags, glitter and leis, that will not be allowed at the ceremony where President Barack Obama will deliver the commencement speech.
"It's kinda ridiculous. There are a lot of things we can't bring. Water. Flowers. Balloons," said Michelle Lee. "As a graduate, I really want to get a lot of flowers, balloons, and I really wanted to decorate my cap."
UC Irvine administrators wouldn't comment on the rules, but said the list came from the White House.
The last sitting president to speak at UC Irvine was President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964.
Many of the graduates said they're just proud Obama has chosen to speak at the university.
"This is a once in a lifetime chance for anybody I would think, so to be able to participate in this is a great honor," a student said.
Some of the banned items will be allowed at traditional ceremonies at UC Irvine on Sunday and Monday.