Disability Services - Accommodations

Closed Captioning at the Stadium

Live closed captioning at Angel Stadium will be provided through the MLB Ballpark App.

SAC recommends attendees to download the MLB Ballpark before arriving at the ceremony if they plan to use the closed captioning service.

iOS Download Link
Google Play Download Link
Please refer to the instructions in this link for assistance.

Fireworks Disclaimer

At the end of the Commencement ceremony, there will be a brief (less than 1 minute) fireworks display involving bright colors and loud sounds that may trigger symptoms for some individuals with photosensitive epilepsy, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, or other conditions. Attendees who are concerned that this may occur should consider the following options:

Make sure all members of your group are aware in advance that a brief fireworks display will be provided
Wear polarized sunglasses
Look away from the fireworks
Bring and wear earplugs/noise-canceling headphones (or cover your ears)
Take your prescribed medication before the event

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I request accommodation for the stadium? Can I get the accommodations tickets online?

Please contact the DSPS Office at (714) 564-6295 or email DSPS@sac.edu by May 30th to request graduate or guest accommodations for the ceremony. Accommodation tickets will be distributed in-person the week of May 15th during Grad Fair; accommodation tickets will not be available online.

Will we be allowed to bring guests?

Yes, each graduate can receive a maximum of 6 guest tickets.

Will there be seating available for graduates who may need accessible or disability-related seating options?

Yes, accessible seating will be available for graduates, so please contact the DSPS Office at (714) 564-6295 or email DSPS@sac.edu by May 30th to make arrangements. You will need to arrive a bit earlier at the stadium on the day of the ceremony. A companion or assigned staff person will be allowed to stay with the graduate. Guest companions must have a commencement ticket to be in attendance.

Will there be seating available for guests who may need accessible or disability-related seating options?

Yes, ADA guest tickets will be available upon request of the graduate at the Grad Fair. A companion will be allowed to stay with the guest in the accessible seating area. Both guest and companion must have a commencement ticket to be in attendance. Thus, one (1) ADA ticket for the person who needs the accommodation + one (1) ticket for the companion.

Will American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreters be provided?

Yes, ASL Interpreters will be available for the duration of the Commencement ceremony. ASL Interpreters will be projected onto the Jumbo Tron screens in Angel Stadium.

Will Assisted Listening Devices be provided?

No, assisted listening devices will not be available. ASL Interpreters and Real-Time Captioning will be available at Angel Stadium.

Is there accessible parking?

Yes, accessible parking is available outside Gates 1-6 and Home Plate Gate. Visitors with a valid state-issued disabled parking placard and/or license plate can park in the appropriateparking area.

Are service animals allowed at the ceremonies?

In keeping with U.S. ADA regulations, people with disabilities may use a dog that is trained to do work or perform tasks for the guest. The work or tasks performed by the service animal must be directly related to the guest's disability. As such, animals that solely provide emotional support or companionship to a guest will not be permitted inside the ballpark.

What recommendations do you have for guests with Autism?
The primary issue that tends to arise for guests on the Autism spectrum is how to address the possibility that they will become over-stimulated or anxious the large crowds and loud noises that will be present. Here are several ways you can help support these guests before and during Commencement:

Preparation

If the person has never visited a large stadium, have them look at pictures or videos of the stadium online so they can better visualize what the experience will be like.
Ask how they feel about going to the stadium and address any specific questions/concerns they share.
Avoid having them participate in any other large-group events that day.

Seating

Have this guest sit between other members of your party so they are familiar with those sitting next to them.
Alternatively, have them sit on an aisle seat so there's only a person sitting immediately next to them on 1 side.

Avoiding/Reducing Over-Stimulation

If they are sensitive to loud noises, have them wear earplugs or noise-canceling headphones during louder portions of the event.
If they are sensitive to visual stimuli (people, movement, glare), have them wear sunglasses on during earlier portions of the event (before the sun drops below the top of the stadium) and/or wear a hat with a large brim to reduce their 'field of view'.
If they are sensitive to strong smells, have them bring a small object (e.g. lotion or small vial of peppermint oil) that can be used to minimize the smell.

Managing/Responding To Over-Stimulation

They may take brief breaks from the crowd by walking back indoors (near the restrooms and food vendors stands).
They may play calming music through earbuds.
They may switch their focus to using an engaging app on their smartphone.
They may bring and use a quiet 'fidget device'.

Disability Services - Accommodations