Legislators joined more than 200 UW Tacoma supporters and community leaders at UW Tacoma’s annual Summer Soiree benefiting an emergency aid fund for students experiencing financial crisis. Each year, it is estimated that nearly three million students face a financial crisis of one form or another and leave school over an expense of less than $1,000. This unexpected financial expense could be related to medical bills, housing or utility costs, or the breakdown of a car. Over the past year, UW Tacoma’s emergency response team has addressed more than 100 student emergencies! Attendees at this year’s Summer Soiree helped raise $108,000 for student emergency aid, which will be put to great use ensuring UW Tacoma students have the resources they need to stay in school.
During this event, legislators also had the opportunity to visit UW Tacoma’s temporary Academic Innovation Lab, which enables students to dream up and test new ideas in the fields of engineering and technology. UW Tacoma constantly strives to find creative ways to support their unique student population, as well as the local community and employers. The Academic Innovation Lab is an exceptional space for students to explore and learn and UW Tacoma looks forward to working with the state legislature to expand opportunities for students in the South Puget Sound.
Thank you to Sens. Reuven Carlyle, David Frockt, Emily Randall, and Claire Wilson, Reps. Chris Gildon, Drew Hansen, and Laurie Jinkins for attending!
