Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

This November, you can use your civic voice for matters that impact your daily life by voting in upcoming state and national elections for the President of the United States, the Governor of your home state, Congress, local officials, and numerous ballot initiatives. Voting is a way to exercise your rights and participate in the democratic process.

Our campus is dedicated to educating both a registered and informed citizenry. We encourage civic engagement, brave conversations, and civil discourse, and it starts with registering to vote!

Registering to vote online takes an average of two minutes or less to complete. You can register online here.

Here are some helpful links and notes:

• Voting Resources: Check if you are already registered to vote, request an absentee ballot to receive a ballot to vote from your home (even if you are registered currently in another state or will be in another state at election time), or register to vote through this link.
• The deadline to register or update your voter registration online or by mail for the November 5th election is quickly approaching: October 28th is the last day! After that, you'll need to register in person.
• If you miss the online registration deadline, you can still register in person until November 5th at your county election office. The Pierce County Elections Office is located at 2501 S. 35th St. C., Tacoma. Other county offices can be located at the Find Your Polling Place option under the Voting Resources link above.
• Huskies Vote: This is a UW Tacoma resource where you can get guidance on voting, maps of ballot drop box locations, and details on election-related events and workshops.

On Election Day, the Center for Student Involvement (UWY 107) will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for in-person assistance. If you've misplaced your Washington state ballot, you can still print a new ballot, vote, and submit it on this day.

Let’s make our voices heard! #HuskiesVote

Best,

Mentha Hynes-Wilson
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Tanya Velasquez
Interim Vice Chancellor, Office of Equity and Inclusion

Holly Wetzel
President, Associated Students of the University of Washington Tacoma (ASUWT)

We want to reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive learning environment for all members of our University community. We are also excited to update you on new and expanded services and options available through the UW Title IX Office.

New Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) for Students

We are pleased to announce the upcoming launch of a new ADR option for students. ADR is a voluntary, informal process designed to help parties reach mutually agreeable solutions. It will be available later this quarter as an option for resolving allegations of Title IX-related policy violations.

Expanded Services and Support

The Title IX Office now features a team of dedicated and experienced case managers. Navigating resources and options related to sex- and gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence, or support for pregnancy and related conditions, can be overwhelming. Our team is committed to providing you with the information and support you need. Case managers can help with:

• Supportive measures - Whether you are looking for academic adjustments, mutual restrictions on communication between parties, or other forms of assistance, the Title IX office serves as a centralized resource for accessing support if you have experienced discrimination, harassment, or violence.
• Resolution Options - Formal or informal University processes may be available to address allegations of sex- and gender-based discrimination, harassment, and violence. Our office can provide the information you need to make informed decisions that are right for your situation.
• Pregnancy & related conditions support - Our case managers can help you identify and request modifications to help you stay in school and maintain your academic progress.

Online Title IX report

Last year we launched the Title IX online reporting form, which significantly increased student outreach to Title IX. It has proven to be an easy way for students to request support and options, or simply share information with the Title IX office. This tool allows for anonymous reporting if you prefer to not disclose names. For confidential support, consider contacting the confidential advocate before submitting an online Title IX report.

2024 Title IX Regulations

As you may already be aware, a federal court issued an injunction which paused the implementation of new Title IX rules at UW and many schools across the nation. While this uncertainty may feel unsettling, we want to reassure you that the protections of Title IX remain in effect. Our Title IX office continues its vital work to promote a safe and equitable environment for all students, including protections against discrimination and harassment for LGBTQ+ members of our community.

Thank you for your continued engagement and for being part of our community. We are here to support you, and we look forward to working together to foster a safe and inclusive environment at the University of Washington Tacoma.

We are finishing the first week of the quarter, and I hope you have experienced a good beginning. There is much to explore at the university, like the Makerspace, Husky Commons lounge, and the University Y. The campus community is committed to enriching the student experience, and I want to introduce you to several services.

Food Truck Tuesday

Food trucks will roll through campus every Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to bring you the best local eats. Accepted payment options are cash, debit, credit, and Apple Pay.

The Pantry

The Pantry is open! Now located on the ground floor of William Philip Hall (WPH 010), it provides food and other essentials to students with immediate food needs.

Nourish Mobile Food Truck

Another resource for free groceries operates every Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The Nourish Mobile Food Bank is a large semi-truck that offers a grocery-style setting in the parking lot across from Tacoma Paper & Stationery (TPS).

Safety and Wellbeing

Are you concerned about your well-being or the well-being of others? Counselors at Psychological and Wellness Services (PAWS) and TELUS Health (24/7 mental health and crisis support in multiple languages) can provide individual consultations. Additional resources include the Office of Student Advocacy and Support, and the Health Promotion Specialist. Quiet space is available in the Center for Equity and Inclusion Meditation Room and the UW Y Reflection Room. Individuals who have experienced or observed a bias incident may report it by filing a report.

Student Discounts

Many small businesses near the campus offer discounts, so it's a good idea to ask about student deals when visiting places like Anthem Coffee, Indochine Asian Dining Lounge, Tim’s Kitchen, and the UW Tacoma Shop.

Student Legal Services (SLS)

Student Legal Services provides free 40-minute consultation sessions on legal matters via Zoom or in person at the SLS office on the UW Seattle campus. SLS also offers low-cost legal representation for students.

All of us in Student Affairs and our colleagues across campus are rooting for your success. Multiple resources are available for first-generation students, students with disabilities, veterans and military-connected families, finding childcare, and so much more. Feel free to contact our offices for assistance, and if you see me around campus, please say hello — I will do the same.

P.S. Be sure to obtain your Husky ID Card and check your UW Tacoma email account regularly. The ID is needed to access certain buildings, and the University will use UW email to communicate with you through your years on campus.

July 13, 2024

Dear student:

By now, you have likely seen the emergency update. Due to a power outage caused by a vehicle accident, campus buildings including the University YMCA Student Center, are currently closed through July 20 and possibly longer.

Classes, labs, and other instruction will occur online. A few classes will be held in person at different locations, and your instructor will let you know if that is the case for you.

All student support offices within Student Affairs, Academic Advising, Library, Equity and Inclusion, and the Teaching and Learning Center remain open remotely. Additionally:

• Students without reliable computers or internet access can borrow laptops, mobile hotspots, and other equipment. For more information, see the IT website or email tachelp@uw.edu. 
• Students can access a cool place to study and relax at their local Y. UW Tacoma students have free access to YMCA facilities across the region and the United States. 
• The HuskiesCare virtual resource hub identifies additional supports: https://uwtacoma.concerncenter.com.
• Emotional support is available through a variety of services, including Psychological and Wellness Services and TELUS Health (formerly MYSSP).
• The Pantry and the Cupboard will remain closed until further notice.  Here is a link to find food resources within the local community: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/454/Food-Banks.

I understand this isn’t the start to the session we had all hoped for. We are working as quickly as possible to resolve the problem, and the University's webpage is the place to find all the latest detailed information. If you have any specific inquiries about your personal situation, please contact your school, department, or the Division of Student Affairs (uwtstudentaffairs@uw.edu).

Sincere regards,

Mentha Hynes-Wilson
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Hello Huskies,

Due to the power outage on campus that started in the early morning of Saturday, July 6, we anticipate interruptions to our food resources. Although we will make every effort to reopen as soon as possible, please keep in mind that if we continue to experience the outage, the Pantry and the Cupboard will remain closed until further notice.

Off-campus resources are available for UW Tacoma students. Here is a link to find food resources within the community: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/454/Food-Banks

The HuskiesCare virtual resource hub identifies additional supports: https://uwtacoma.concerncenter.com/

As soon as we are operational again, we will let you know.

Thank you for your patience, and should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Surtida Shelton at shelton8@uw.edu.

Sincerely,

Mentha Hynes-Wilson
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Dear Students:

I wanted to reach out to you and let you know that YOU have been on our minds!  The Division of Student Affairs is your champion, and we believe in you!  As you prepare for your finals, please remember the following important messages:

YOU CAN DO IT!

We know you are likely very tired!  Don't give up now, we know you can do it!  Finish your quarter off strong - we are rooting for you!  Please know that If you need any help, you have so many resources available to you in the Division of Student Affairs!  Take a look at our website to find the resources best for your needs (look at the dropdown menus or scroll down on the site for all the potential resources and support we provide) or talk to one of our amazing staff members about your needs and the support we may be able to provide!  

LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STUDY FOR FINALS?

The Dawg House Student Lounge in the Mattress Factory (MAT) is a great place to study for your finals in a private area. Quiet space is also available near MAT 103, MAT 213, and MAT 352, as well as in the UW Tacoma Library, computer labs, or the University Y.  There are multiple spaces all around the campus, and there are even places where you can reserve your campus study space to ensure it is yours alone.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF! 

Most importantly, our message to you is, "Please take care of yourself!  Your mental health is extremely important!"  We hope you will seek out services and resources on campus that can support you if you need them (i.e. Psychological & Wellness Services and TELUS Health [formerly MYSSP]). We also have a virtual resource, HuskiesCare, that was created to help you with your basic needs and many other concerns you may be having. Please don't hesitate to reach out for support as you need it! And, if you know a friend who may need help, please do what you can to help them find the resources they need. 

Sending you all the best!

Mentha

This message is being sent to all students enrolled at the University of Washington’s Tacoma campus. 

Dear UW Student: 

Title IX and other federal and state laws prohibit all forms of sex- and gender-based discrimination. Sex- and gender-based discrimination includes sexual harassment, relationship violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, and sexual assault. Title IX also prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, and pregnancy and related conditions.  

How can the Office of the Title IX Coordinator help? Title IX case managers can: 

1. Provide information, resources and options to individuals who experience sex- and gender-based violence, harassment and discrimination; they can help you support a friend, too 
2. Implement supportive measures — like changes in class schedules or mutual restrictions on communication between two individuals  
3. Explain the formal complaint option, which is a request for the University to investigate prohibited conduct, and discuss how an investigation will progress and what to expect 
4. Assist students who are pregnant or experiencing related conditions to get support and reasonable adjustments to ensure they are not denied or limited access to their classes or related activities 

You can submit online reports directly to the UW Title IX Office 

Starting this year, students can submit online reports directly to the UW Title IX Office. When submitting a report, students can choose to remain anonymous and/or not share their own or others’ names to protect an individual’s identity. Learn more about how to make a report and what happens after you submit a report on the Title IX “Make a Report” page. 

Consider seeking confidential support before submitting a Title IX report  

The Office of the Title IX Coordinator strives to protect the privacy of individuals involved in Title IX-related matters but is not a confidential resource. If you have experienced sexual assault, relationship violence, stalking or sexual harassment, and are seeking confidential support, consider contacting the UW Tacoma confidential advocate before submitting an online Title IX report.  

New Title IX regulations 

We are awaiting new Title IX regulations from the U.S. Department of Education. When those regulations are finalized, the Office of the Title IX Coordinator will post information on the UW’s Title IX website and follow up with an email message to all students and employees.  

Have an excellent year and thank you for working with us and with each other to provide inclusive, welcoming communities for all UW students. 

Sincerely, 

Mentha Hynes-Wilson 

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs 

Valery Richardson                                           

Title IX Coordinator   

Dear Huskies:

Welcome to the Autumn 2023 quarter! This time of the academic year is always exciting as I enjoy welcoming both our new and returning students back to campus. As you participate in the various Welcome Days activities and settle into the quarter, you will quickly sense that UW Tacoma is a campus community fully devoted to your support, engagement, and success.

As paert of that support, I am pleased to announce a new service available to all UWT students. Student Legal Services (SLS), funded through the generosity of the Services and Activities Fee Committee, provides free 40-minute consultation sessions on legal matters via Zoom or in-person at the SLS office on the UW Seattle campus. SLS also offers low-cost legal representation for students. (SLS cannot provide representation in matters where the opposing party is another UW student or entity.)

Please visit the SLS website to learn more about the full scope of services and the process for setting an appointment. You are also welcome to contact Tanya Fekri, Director of Student Legal Services, at slsuw@uw.edu. 

Have an enjoyable Autumn quarter, and I look forward to seeing you around campus. 

Best,

Mentha Hynes-Wilson 

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs 

Dear Husky, 

I am delighted you will join us for the 2023-2024 academic year. UW Tacoma is a close-knit community, and here are a few details to help you make connections with classmates, faculty, and staff and campus resources.

Convocation: It is a tradition for students, faculty, and staff to come together to kick off the start of the academic year. Join us on Wednesday, September 27, on the Prairie Line Trail from noon –1:30 pm. We will have free snacks, entertainment, and special UW Tacoma swag! 

HuskiesCare: HuskiesCare, managed through the Office of Student Advocacy & Support, is a Virtual Resource Hub that will help you find resources that include emergency relief and support services to address your basic needs.

Student Discounts: Many shops and stores offer student discounts. Check out Dancing Goats Coffee at 2102 Commerce Street, Zeeks Pizza, 1702 Pacific Avenue, and the UW Tacoma Shop - offering UW Tacoma clothing and accessories - at 1754 Pacific Avenue. Student ID is required.

Welcome Days: There are many rewarding and fun ways to get involved on- and off-campus. Explore all that UW Tacoma has to offer, from Boxing Basics, Donut Thursdays, and Karaoke nights to resume workshops to discussions of identity during Welcome Days events the first week of the autumn quarter. With over 65 student organizations, something is bound to be for you.  

The Annual Class Photo: Each year, new first-year and transfer students assemble on the Court 17 lawn for the celebrated photo were new students arrange themselves in a “W.” Let’s establish a new record on Tuesday, October 3, for the largest participation!

Obviously, I am excited to meet you! The Division of Student Affairs is here to offer guidance and support and we all look forward to seeing you on campus.

Best,

Mentha Hynes-Wilson

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

P.S. Be sure to obtain your Husky ID Card and check your UW Tacoma email account regularly. The ID is needed to access certain buildings, and the University will use UW email to communicate with you through your years on campus.

Dear student:

We recognize that, as of late, you may have received notifications or heard things around campus that may be causing you to be concerned about your safety. We are aware of these issues, taking them seriously, and working to address them. We care about you and the safety of everyone on this campus. 

We encourage you to update your emergency contact information in MyUW and to sign up for UW Tacoma Alerts to stay informed about what is happening on campus should an emergency occur. Additionally, we encourage you to visit the Campus Safety & Security website and review the resources they have provided for your safety and emergency concerns.  

Finally, we hope you will to seek out services and resources on campus that can support you whenever you need (i.e. Psychological & Wellness Services and MySSP). We also have a virtual resource, HuskiesCare, that was created to help you with your basic needs and many other concerns you may be having. Please don't hesistate to reach out for support as you need it! And, if you know a friend who may need help, please do what you can to help them find the resources they need. 

We commit to keeping you updated on campus safety measures. As part of this effort, we are holding a Town Hall on Addressing Campus Safety, where your input is welcomed, on Wednesday, May 3 at 4 p.m. I hope to see you there!

Best,

Ms. M

Mentha Hynes-Wilson (she, her)

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Dear students,

We are excited to announce the details for our Commencement celebration. This year, UW Tacoma will hold one Commencement ceremony on Friday, June 9, 2023 beginning at 10 a.m. at the Tacoma Dome. We expect it to last about two and a half hours.

Please check out the Commencement website for details. Information on guest tickets and cap and gown pickup are being finalized right now and should be sent to students eligible to graduate by March 15. Registration for Commencement will open in late April.

Our planning committee is working hard to bring joy and excitement to this pivotal moment in our students’ lives. This includes more opportunities for you to celebrate with friends, family, and faculty.

We look forward to seeing all graduating students and their families there on June 9!

Sincerely,

Sheila Edwards Lange, Ph.D.

Chancellor

Mentha Hynes-Wilson

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs

Jai’Shon Berry

President, Associated Students of UW Tacoma

Dear Huskies,

As Chancellor Lange noted this past Friday in her outreach message to the campus community, we find ourselves yet again grappling with intensely painful and tragic moments taking place across our nation. On the heels of the heinous shooting in Monterey Park, CA, that claimed 11 lives and wounded nine others, we most recently witnessed Memphis police engaged in the violent killing of Tyre Nichols, yet another unarmed Black man, during a traffic stop. There are no words to adequately express the outrage, grief, and fear that can settle in during the aftermath of such senseless acts of violence.

As we continue coping — individually and collectively — with the aftermath of the frightening and increasing numbers of mass shootings and incidents of police brutality that have targeted Black, Asian, and LGBTQ communities, I invite you to consider guidance from the American Psychological Association for managing distress brought on by traumatic events:

• Talk about it. Ask for support from loved ones and seek professional help should you feel like you are unable to function or perform basic activities of daily living.
• Find your balance. When everything seems negative and overwhelming, remind yourself of the people, events, and things in your life that bring you happiness and encouragement.
• Turn it off and take a break. Set limits for how much news or other distressing information you take in every day. Try to do something that will instead lift your spirits.
• Honor your feelings. Remember that it is common to feel a range of emotions after a traumatic event.
• Take care of yourself. Engage in healthy behaviors that help you cope with stress: drink water and eat nutritious, comforting meals and snacks; exercise; re-establish routines; and avoid substances.
• Help others and/or do something productive. Helping someone else often has the benefit of making you feel better, too.

If you are feeling impacted by the cumulative effects of the societal violence we face, know that you have resources and support within the Division of Student Affairs to assist you. I encourage you to call or visit Psychological & Wellness Services, if needed, for free, confidential counseling services.

On behalf of the Division of Student Affairs, I offer my deepest condolences, support, and empathy to all those who are impacted.

In solidarity and support,

Mentha Hynes-Wilson

Vice Chancellor