As incoming students at Loyola Marymount University, we were told we would begin our journey on the Bluff and end it there as well. This promise is a cherished tradition that embodies the spirit and community of LMU. Unfortunately, university officials are now planning to move our graduation ceremony to BMO Stadium near Downtown Los Angeles, citing logistical challenges such as parking accommodations.

This decision is deeply troubling to students, their families, and the broader LMU community. The graduation ceremony on the Bluff has always been a special and meaningful experience. It celebrates not just our academic achievements but also the unique beauty and tradition of our campus. Moving it to a stadium robs us of this once-in-a-lifetime moment in the place we’ve called home for years.

Even more concerning is the plan to combine the undergraduate, graduate, and law school ceremonies into a single event, where none of us will have the chance to walk the stage. This depersonalized approach fails to honor the hard work and sacrifices made by students and their families, many of whom have invested significant resources to see us through this journey.

We believe that the decision to move graduation off-campus reflects a lack of respect for students and their families. The university has the capability to overcome parking and logistical challenges without sacrificing such an important tradition. Graduation on the Bluff is not just a ceremony; it is a culmination of years of dedication, growth, and community. We urge LMU to reconsider this decision and keep graduation on the Bluff where it belongs.

Let’s stand together to protect this special moment and ensure future graduates can enjoy the same meaningful experience. Please sign this petition to support keeping LMU graduation on the Bluff!

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• BMO Stadium has a capacity of 22,000. Last year the undergraduate ceremony had roughly 16,00 attendees. This is guaranteed to be a logistical nightmare.
• The venue is about 45 minutes away from our campus in a dangerous part of Los Angeles. No offer to shuttle students/families has been made by the University.  

TELL THEM WE WILL NOT SHOW UP IF IT IS NOT ON THE BLUFF!