Why This Petition Matters:

The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing has made the disappointing decision to no longer host graduation ceremonies for students who complete their degrees in the Fall semester — a move that feels deeply unfair, inequitable, and disheartening to many of us in the nursing community.

Graduating from nursing school at UT Austin is a life-changing accomplishment. It deserves to be recognized and celebrated — no matter the semester. Fall graduates have completed the same rigorous coursework, clinical hours, and academic standards as Spring graduates. Yet they are being denied the opportunity to walk the stage, hear their names called, and celebrate with the families and mentors who supported them.

For many in the School of Nursing, this would be their first-ever graduation ceremony. A significant number of current students missed their high school graduation due to COVID-19, and now, after years of hard work, long shifts, and emotional sacrifices, they’re being told again that they don’t get to have that moment.

Additionally, nursing students often accept full-time positions or enroll in further medical programs immediately after graduation. Asking Fall graduates to return for a Spring ceremony months later is unrealistic and exclusionary — especially for those who are first-generation college students, come from low-income families, or cannot afford time off or travel.

All Longhorn Nurses deserve to be honored.

If a school-wide Fall commencement is no longer an option, we respectfully ask that the School of Nursing be allowed to host its own Fall recognition ceremony. Even a smaller, department-led event would go a long way in offering closure, pride, and well-earned celebration for these students and their families.

We’re asking UT Austin and the School of Nursing to reconsider this decision and ensure that Fall graduates are not forgotten. Creative, cost-effective alternatives exist — what matters most is the commitment to equity and respect for all students.

🎓 Whether you're a current nursing student, alum, parent, clinical partner, or friend — please sign and share this petition. Help us show that Fall nursing graduates deserve to be celebrated.

Hook 'em.
Fall Nurses Deserve a Ceremony Too.