Universities consider how to protect graduation ceremonies from anti-Israel protesters [Video]

With student protests over the Israel-Hamas war disrupting campuses nationwide, several major universities are intent on ensuring that commencement ceremonies — joyous milestones for graduates, their families and friends — go off without a hitch this weekend.

It won’t be easy. Colleges are hiring extra security, screening attendees at venues and emphasizing that significant disruptions by anti-Israel protesters won’t be tolerated. At the same time, they’re pledging to honor free-speech rights by designating protest zones.

Students booed and yelled “free Palestine” while the University of Utah president spoke Thursday night at commencement. He paused his speech to ask those who were protesting to leave or be removed. Outside the ceremony in Salt Lake City, a group of about 50 people were rallying. There was one arrest.

HOUTHIS WOULD WELCOME STUDENTS SUSPENDED FOR ANTI-ISRAEL PROTESTS TO THE MILITIA’S OWN UNIVERSITY

“Milestone is a perfect word,” said Ken Burdick of Tampa, Florida, describing his …