College of Liberal Studies

Friday, May 22, 2026 @ 3:00pm

Academic Processional

“Processional of Joy”

Invocation

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Greetings

Joanna Gregson, Provost, Professor of Sociology
Allan Belton, President

Faculty Retirements

Stephanie Johnson, Dean of the College of Liberal Studies, Professor of English, presenting
Faculty Retirees:
Tamara R. Williams, Professor of Hispanic and Latino Studies

Reflection

Areli Arauja Ruiz, Student Speaker

Commencement Address

Natasha Laitila ’16, Candidate for State Representative

Conferral of Degrees

Allan Belton, President
Bridget Yaden, Associate Provost for Undergraduate Programs, Professor of Hispanic and Latino Studies

Closing Comments

Allan Belton, President

Prayer and Benediction

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Recessional

“Processional of Joy”

Natasha Laitila, Candidate for State Representative

Natasha Laitila is a public servant and community advocate who was born and raised in South Tacoma. Her most recent role was at the Washington State Department of Commerce, supporting programs focused on economic stability and opportunity for Washington residents, including work connected to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and workforce development initiatives.

A graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, Natasha earned her degree in Political Science and Women’s and Gender Studies in 2016. After graduation, she served for two years in AmeriCorps and has worked across all three branches of the Washington state government, including both the House and the Senate.

Natasha is currently running for State Representative, Position 2, in Washington’s 29th Legislative District. She will graduate in June from the Evans School of Public Policy and Governance at the University of Washington with an MPA.

Areli Arauja Ruiz

Areli Arauja Ruiz is a candidate for degrees in Political Science and Global Studies, with a concentration in Transnationalism and Consequences, and minors in Pre-Law and Criminal Justice. Hailing from both Oaxaca, Mexico, and Tacoma, Washington, Areli credits PLU as her professional launchpad and a space where she felt truly seen. She emphasizes the impact of programs like PLUS 100 and the mentorship of Dra. María Chávez, which helped her overcome imposter syndrome and recognize that her identity is a strength. Her fondest memory of her PLU experience was participating in the D.C. Semester program, where she interned with LULAC and later MALDEF, experiences that reaffirmed her commitment to immigration law. Following graduation, Areli plans to work as a paralegal for a nonprofit organization in Seattle while preparing for the LSAT, with the ultimate goal of becoming an attorney and serving as a congresswoman.