It’s summer in Tacoma and school may be out of session, but for the middle and high school students enrolled in the University of Puget Sound’s Summer Academic Challenge, it’s the perfect time to gain new skills and stave off summer learning loss. A group of students are gathered around computers, learning how to code by building a website from scratch.

Brendan Lanctot, professor of Hispanic studies at the University of Puget Sound, has been recognized by the Latin American Studies Association (LASA) Nineteenth Century Section for his chapter, “Civic Festivals, Popular Spectacles, and the Art of Drawing Republics.” He earned an Honorable Mention from the organization, highlighting Lanctot’s innovative exploration of how 19th-century public spectacles shaped political identities in Latin America.

The University of Puget Sound has earned a STARS Silver rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), recognizing the university’s progress in sustainability across academics, operations, engagement, and planning.

University of Puget Sound is a learning community where students benefit from faculty and staff mentorship to develop a lifelong love of learning. Whether standing in front of the classroom or working behind the scenes, this year’s retirees have a shared commitment to supporting students and promoting intellectual curiosity. Together, they represent over 300 years of service to the university and an invaluable resource to the community.

University of Puget Sound will honor its graduates on Sunday, May 11, at 2 p.m. as part of its 133rd Commencement. The ceremony at Baker Stadium will celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025, including both undergraduates and students completing one of Puget Sound’s five graduate programs.

This spring, the University of Puget Sound campus will get moving for a meaningful cause—public health awareness and workforce development. Hosted by the Public Health Student Association (PHSA), the Walk, Run, & Roll 5K and Data Walk invites students, faculty, and staff to take part in an event that blends physical activity, community building, and public health education.

Kevoni Neely ’25, outgoing president of the Associated Students of the University of Puget Sound (ASUPS), is wrapping up her final semester after serving as a key student leader on campus. Neely, who is graduating with a major in African American Studies and a minor in Crime, Law, & Justice Studies, reflects on her time advocating for her fellow students and the university.

Washington state Speaker Laurie Jinkins JD’90 will deliver the keynote address for the 133rd Commencement Ceremony at the University of Puget Sound on Sunday, May 11, 2025, and receive an honorary degree alongside long-serving and groundbreaking Tacoma education leader Willie C. Stewart Sr.

The University of Puget Sound will launch an Interdisciplinary Data Analytics minor in Fall 2025, equipping students with the skills needed to navigate the growing world of big data, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making.

The traditional college experience is often seen as a four-year journey of self-discovery and academic exploration. But for some, there is an opportunity and a drive to obtain the degree in just three years.