Nursing Grads Slam Howard University For Chaotic Graduation Cut Short

What was supposed to be a joyous occasion celebrating the achievements of Howard University's nursing graduates quickly descended into chaos on Thursday. The university's nursing program graduation ceremony in Washington D.C. was abruptly halted after the auditorium reached maximum capacity, leaving many guests stranded outside and unable to witness their loved ones' special day.

Amid chaotic scenes at the Howard University nursing program’s graduation ceremony, one individual sustained injuries as the event reached maximum capacity and was abruptly halted on Thursday.

Entry Denied

As the auditorium filled up, staff members were forced to deny entry to additional guests, sparking outrage and disruptive behavior from those shut out. Videos circulated on social media show large crowds pushing against the venue's doors and windows, with audible shouting and commotion.

In one particularly alarming video, a glass door in the foyer can be seen shattering as the frustrated crowd pressed forward. Amidst the chaos, at least one person was reportedly injured, though details remain unclear.

Dr. Gina S. Brown, the dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, spoke to the audience, explaining that the disturbance was due to capacity limitations and the actions of certain attendees.

“Because of the size of the room and because our relatives sometimes do not know how to act, the fire department is now here to shut us down,” stated Brown. 

However, DC Fire stated that they did not shut down the graduation and that they were onsite responding to a medical call. 

@tynaej Howard wtf. Yall scammed them out of getting to finally walk at graduation. This is saddd🥺 #classof2020 #howarduniversity #classof2024 #youknowblackpeople #fypシ゚viral ♬ original sound - tynaej

Overcrowding Concerns Cited for Early End

According to the ceremony's website, the venue could accommodate three to four guests per graduate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, it appears that far more people showed up, exceeding the auditorium's capacity and raising safety concerns.

Faced with the rapidly escalating situation, university officials made the difficult decision to shut down the event early before degrees could be conferred. Graduates and their families were understandably devastated to have their milestone achievement marred by such a disruptive scene.

Social Media Backlash

In the aftermath, outrage and disappointment poured out on social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Graduates lamented missing out on walking across the stage, while families expressed anger at being denied entry after traveling from across the country.

Many criticized the university for its apparent lack of planning and crowd control measures. Others placed blame on guests who disregarded stated capacity limits.

For the Howard University nursing graduates of 2024, their hard-earned achievement was undoubtedly tarnished by the chaos and confusion. This weekend, a portion of those students will participate in the commencement walk. The main university ceremony is set for Saturday, while individual student awards will be presented on Friday.