Since 2001, the VCU School of the Arts has celebrated its December graduates with a dedicated commencement ceremony. This cherished tradition was introduced to accommodate graduates completing their degrees in August and December, providing them with an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments within their school. Each ceremony highlighted the distinct disciplines, hard work, and creativity of VCUarts students, bringing together faculty, families, and friends.

This year, however, the School of the Arts’ December commencement ceremony has been permanently canceled, merging instead with the university-wide May commencement. Under this new arrangement, only doctoral candidates will cross the stage, while all other graduates will lose the opportunity to be celebrated within their own school community. This decision was made without prior notification or input from the students most affected.

The arts are integral to VCU’s identity, and our unique disciplines deserve recognition in a way that honors our creativity, diversity, and passion, comprising approximately 3,000 students.

Restoring this tradition ensures that our graduates are honored appropriately and that the legacy of VCUarts’ December commencement, held for over two decades, continues to inspire pride in the school and the greater VCU community.

Please sign this petition to make the voices of VCUarts students heard and valued.