Kicking-off fall with Convocation

The 2026-27 academic year was started off with one of the largest academic events of the year: Convocation! Here is an overview of the event along with advice from attendees. 

By Mya Leo

Convocation is the first of many on campus events that UW Tacoma hosts throughout the academic year. Held on Sept. 30 along the Prairie Line Trail, this celebration aims to welcome all incoming students while also highlighting the various aspects of student life UW Tacoma has such as clubs, academic and community resources, student government, student jobs and more.  

Alongside learning and networking opportunities, students enjoyed games, free food, a photo-op with Dubs and a performance from the Lincoln High School drumline.  

At the height of the event, a short program was held with short talks given by Chancellor Sheila Edwards Lange and Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Mentha Hynes-Wilson, the 2026-27 Associated Students of UW Tacoma (ASUWT) President Terrell Stalworth alongside other university leaders and alumni. Segments of the program included welcome back messages and a reminder of support on campus given through a traditional song from the Puyallup Nation sung by David Sway-La Cougar Duenas, a member and UW Tacoma alumnus.  

During Chancellor Lange’s talk, she defined what it means to be a UW Tacoma husky with four attributes: Rising with the community, creates opportunities, values every voice and turns knowledge into impact. This sentiment was echoed by the students and staff who attended convocation when asked what advice they had for incoming students and what they were looking forward to most in the upcoming year. 

“Get involved, I really regret not getting involved and going to events and stuff… do as much as you can because making connections is like the best part of being here” Zoey said, a senior in Communication with a minor in Sports Enterprise Management. Zoey was one of many students who stressed the importance of seeking connections and building a community on campus.  

“Ask questions, meet with your advisor and don’t be afraid. Advisors are connectors; that’s what we’re here for,” Rachel Crook said, a SET graduate advisor. Overall, staff and faculty shared similar thoughts on community engagement with the addition of urging new students to bring the staff into the support system that they build for themselves. Staff members also put more emphasis on attending class and being an active participant in your education. 

When asked what they were looking forward to most this year, there was a distinct difference between new and returning students. Incoming transfer student Kira said, “I’m really excited to meet new people, get to know the campus, the Tacoma area and to have fun in my classes and learn new things!” While returning students were still eager to connect with their peers and stay involved with campus life, many already had their sights set on graduation and the opportunities that will arise when entering the professional world. 

To stay updated on more events like this, students are encouraged to check Dubnet regularly or download the app Campus Groups.