Our Parkland Neighborhood

As an anchor institution in Pierce County, Pacific Lutheran University is invested in the well-being of Parkland, Tacoma, and the South Sound. We believe connections across economic, social, and cultural sectors are essential to building a more equitable, just, and sustainable community.

We’re proud of the 130+ years of connected history we share with Parkland, and we’re committed to ongoing partnerships with Franklin Pierce Schools, local small businesses, Pierce County, and others. We’re proud to serve more students than ever in our history from the Parkland, Spanaway, and Lakewood communities.

PLU also hosts the Mid-County Leadership Team, which provides a monthly forum for organizations interested in improving the community and supporting opportunities for children and families. PLU President Allan Belton regularly exchanges updates with county and state leaders, local school districts, area non-profit community organizations, local healthcare systems, and many others.

We’re committed to future listening and dialogue with our community. We understand that sometimes conversations between community members can be challenging and complicated, but our long history of engaging in such discussions assures us that this work is always worth it.

In Fall 2022, we are engaging in a community listening process that will help inform other projects involving our campus and nearby PLU properties. We will update this page with public information about these projects and other opportunities to engage with PLU staff about these plans. PLU will also explore the viability of a neighborhood advisory group to encourage positive community engagement and opportunities for neighbor involvement in campus activities and events.

PLU News stories