Thousands of families flocked to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for the University of Southern California’s main-stage commencement on Thursday night, giving off vibes reminiscent of a typical collegiate event held there — like a football game. Vendors hawking “Churros! Water!” navigated through seated guests, some waving pom-poms in excitement. The USC fight song set the tone as night fell, and the Olympic Torch towering over the Coliseum lit up to thunderous cheers. It was a festive and celebratory atmosphere, marking a fresh start from last year’s graduation fiasco at USC.
The brouhaha in May 2024 saw USC receiving heavy backlash for its graduation mishaps. Amid campus unrest over Israel’s actions in Gaza, President Carol Folt axed the main ceremony due to safety concerns. This move also resulted in the cancellation of valedictorian Asna Tabassum’s speech, who had voiced pro-Palestinian sentiments. Fast forward to 2025, the commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2025 kicked off with significant changes. The usual on-campus venue at Alumni Park, known for its red-brick buildings and lush surroundings, was swapped for the massive Coliseum.
One of the most notable alterations this year was the elimination of the valedictorian title and speech. Instead, Meghan Anand, a standout student with a GPA of 3.5 or above, was selected to deliver celebratory essays about the graduating class. This departure from tradition didn’t sit well with some students, like senior Nicole Concepcion, who felt it was a move by USC to control the narrative. However, amidst the mixed sentiments, many students were just grateful to have a grand event recognizing their hard work and achievements, especially after the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
As the commencement unfolded at the Coliseum, echoes of the past traditions at Alumni Park were felt, albeit with a modern twist. The event was not without its critics, with some feeling that the shift to the Coliseum was more about security and logistics rather than honoring the university’s legacy. The decision to hold the ceremony at the stadium, equipped with stringent security measures, raised eyebrows but was deemed necessary for such a large-scale gathering. For Lawrence Sung, a senior at USC, the security protocols were a minor inconvenience compared to the significance of the event.
The move to the Coliseum also allowed for a more expansive celebration, accommodating a larger audience and offering a unique experience for the graduating students. Lavanya Sharma, a flag bearer at the ceremony and a first-generation graduate, saw the Coliseum as a fitting venue given its association with USC’s sporting events. The blend of tradition and innovation was evident throughout the event, symbolizing a fresh start for USC’s commencement ceremonies. Despite the changes and controversies, the spirit of celebration and achievement prevailed, marking a memorable milestone for the Class of 2025.
