Accessible Seating and Parking

Accessible Parking Information

Parking for those with Accessibility Needs: Parking for graduates and guests with accessibility needs is available in the north and south sides of Pete Mathews Coliseum parking lots. This parking areas are accessible from the Nisbet Street North West (Hwy 204) and Park Ave NW entrances and will require a state or university issued accessible parking placard, hangtag, or license plate.

Drop Off for those with Accessibility Needs: Drop-off areas are at the north and south entrances for guests with accessibility needs or mobility impairments. Once the guest is dropped off, those not utilizing accessible parking are directed to utilize the other general parking available as identified in the general parking information section above.

Accessibility Access for the Ceremony

Coliseum Entrance and Accessible Seating: Persons with accessibility needs may enter the Coliseum from any of the guest entrances on the North and South side of the Coliseum. University staff will be available to assist you with seating. Seating for guests using wheelchairs or other mobility aids is on the main level at each corner of the arena on a first-come, first-serve basis. We request that only one person accompany the individual requiring accessible seating.

Accessible Bathrooms and Facilities: Accessible restrooms are located on the main floor (second floor) of the arena.

Wheelchair/Mobility Aid Availability: Guests in need of wheelchairs or other mobility aids should make provisions to bring those with them to the ceremony. Wheelchairs and other mobility aids are not provided at the Coliseum or parking locations.

Auditory Assistance: Accommodations for those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing will be provided in two formats. An American Sign Language interpreter will be located on the commencement stage during the ceremony. We will also offer seating with access to a screen providing captioning available in a section at the northwest corner of the arena. Staff will be present to assist you in accessing this area. We request that only one person accompany the individual requiring accessible seating.

Degree Candidates: A ramp is available to graduates to access the commencement stage. Graduates requesting the need of a wheelchair or other mobility aid may contact Disability Resources at 256-782-8380 or disabilityresources@jsu.edu. Graduates, please request these at least 48 hours in advance to allow time for our Specialists to work with you.

Emergency Services

Jacksonville Fire and Rescue will have an ambulance on site during the event. Assistance is available through the JSU’s UPD at 256-782-5050. UPD officers are stationed in the Stadium before and during the ceremony. 

For additional accessibility information or other accessibility requests, please contact Disability Resources at 256-782-8380 or by email at disabilityresources@jsu.edu.