USC hosts LA Memorial Coliseum event after canceling commencement

The University of Southern California is hosting an event celebrating students' graduation Thursday evening at the LA Memorial Coliseum after canceling the school's commencement ceremony over concerns stemming from campus protests last week.

The "Trojan Family Graduate Celebration" takes place May 9 and features surprise performances, drone shows, fireworks and the school's marching band. Students and their loved ones are sharing the venue with other groups there at the same time. USC said it couldn't have its main stage ceremony at the Coliseum since it was fully booked.

"Please join us with your family and loved ones next Thursday to celebrate your accomplishments in a big way – and come together as a Trojan Family," the university said in an earlier statement.

The class of 2024's commencement ceremony was canceled after the university called in police to dismantle a pro-Palestinian encampment at the university last week. Campus protests resulted in a shutdown of the school to the general public.

In its statement about the new event, the university said it attempted to find other venues to celebrate, apparently doing so after canceling the official graduation ceremony.

"We also looked at many alternative arenas around Los Angeles – which on such short notice had similar issues," the university stated.

Each graduate received up to six tickets for those attending.