UWT Commencement 2016

College graduation is a huge milestone in a person's life. In past years the University of Washington Tacoma has held commencement at the Tacoma Dome. In more recent years the number of students graduating from the University of Washington Tacoma has been growing significantly. With this large increase of graduates, the Tacoma Dome no longer accommodates our needs.

We, the University of Washington Tacoma class of 2016, petition for a change of venue or a change in the use of the Tacoma Dome for commencement. The University of Washington Tacoma must realize that the UWT population has increased significantly.

The fact that the Tacoma Dome will host only a very limited amount of students and guests is a major issue with the graduates. This is an important moment, not just for students, but for UWT In the past, there has been no limit on how many guests a student may bring. In more recent years there has been a ticket limit implemented on students. Last year it has been 7 tickets per student, this year it is 5 tickets per student.

We understand these preparations are made based on the capacity of the venue and equality to each student, but 5 tickets are not enough. We should not have to choose what family member should or should not go to support us on our big day.

We want change now before the 2016 commencement. Since only half of the Tacoma Dome is being utilized, we request for full use of the facility. If that is not possible, then we ask for options for a bigger venue.

We are a part of the University of Washington. The graduating students at the Seattle campus do not have to worry about tickets, they provide a big enough venue so that everyone can attend. We feel that the same courtesy should be provided for us, the UWT class of 2016.

With your support we can make a change for this and future commencements. By opening up the entire Tacoma Dome for use, or using a bigger venue, we will be able to share our memorable day with everyone who supported us in this journey.

Thank you.