SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP): The University of Notre Dame is encouraging people to arrive early for commencement on May 15 because of extra security with Vice President Joe Biden attending.

The university is awarding Biden and former Speaker of the House John Boehner its top award, the Laetare Medal. The university said it is giving medals to Biden and Boehner for their leadership, civility and dedication to the nation.

The academic processional will begin about 9 a.m. and gates will open at 7 a.m. The university says many common items will be prohibited, including umbrellas and purses or bags larger than 12 by 12 by 12 inches, backpacks, signs or banners, unopened packages or gifts and containers.

The commencement will be held at Notre Dame Stadium.