UConn graduates celebrate amid protests and tightened security

STORRS, Conn. (WTNH) — This weekend, UConn is gearing up to bid farewell to its graduating class as they embark on their next chapter.

Graduation day at the University of Connecticut was marked by both celebration and tension as graduates reflected on their academic journey amidst unprecedented circumstances.

RJ Streater, a senior graduating with honors in physiology and neurobiology, reminisced about the challenges they faced.

“Our freshman year was COVID. I was up here, and we had all of the rules and regulations. We are now finally embracing everything that we worked hard for.”

Despite the festive atmosphere, the day was not without its concerns. Increased police presence, metal detectors, and security barriers reminded graduates of the ongoing tensions.

Brian Dolan, another senior, expressed his surprise at the security measures.

“I was going to my last final, and I saw the rest happening over by the rec center, people getting zip tied and stuff. It’s crazy. It’s not what I was expecting out of graduation,” said Brian Dolan senior.

For many, the combination of joy and anxiety made the day feel surreal. Andrew Sarnel, a senior, described the atmosphere as surreal, emphasizing the significance of the moment amidst the unusual circumstances.

“Tensions are rising with everything. I think it’s a good precaution more than anything,” said Sarnel. “Hopefully nothing happens, but definitely good to have just in case.”

Harish Ravichandran, a senior, said “the fact that people are willing to take that day that’s about all the things they’ve accomplished, over the past four years and stick up for something bigger, something happening halfway across the world; I respect it.”

Despite the challenges, one sentiment echoed among the graduates: resilience.

They had persevered through a pandemic and now faced protests, recognizing that these experiences were all part of their education, shaping them for the future.

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