University of Washington President Michael Young participated in a roundtable discussion with UW Tacoma students last week.
Participants included UW Student Regent Kiana Scott, who served as moderator, and students representing a cross-section of the UW Tacoma student population: transfer, first-generation, non-traditional, undergraduate, graduate and many different degree programs.
The lively dialogue focused on two main ideas: the relationship between the three UW campuses and what about UW Tacoma makes the students proud. UW Tacoma students are proud of many things:
- Student involvement works at UW Tacoma. Students see clear paths to getting involved in student leadership and in activities and groups that interest them.
- Access to faculty is excellent and appreciated.
- Opportunity for community engagement is valued and impressive.
- Diversity of all types — race, age, economic background – is prioritized and enriching.
- The focus on undergraduate education is strong and supported by access to academic resources important to first-generation students, such as the Teaching and Learning Center and Career Services.
One student summarized the pride of UW Tacoma in noting: “We are very proud of this campus and what makes us special.”