ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – A New Mexico lawmaker is reacting to guests not being allowed at the University of New Mexico’s graduation this weekend. The university is only allowing graduates to attend the outdoor commencement at University Stadium.
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A spokesperson says planning happened in March when the county was in the Yellow Level of restrictions and while it’s now in Turquoise, it’s too late to make changes or expand the already large event. Republican Senator Greg Baca is now responding.
“After possibly the most difficult and lonely school year in the history of the University of New Mexico, UNM has disappointed our students and their families with this obsolete decision. Our graduates worked extremely hard to meet their graduation requirements despite the challenges of this past year. Now, their loved ones who supported them must cheer them on from a laptop or television. Whatever the reason for this decision, our students are being denied this once in a lifetime celebration,” Baca said in a statement.
Of the 3,500 students eligible to participate in commencement, about 1,200 signed up. Saturday’s commencement is being live-streamed.
