Federal Relations

UW Tacoma collaborates closely with the UW Office of Federal Relations in Washington, D.C., to advance a range of policy and funding initiatives and issues. The Director of Government Relations serves as liaison to the Washington state congressional delegation, working with staff in their offices located in both our state and in Washington, D.C. We consult on federal grant requests to agencies.

If you are visiting D.C., we can arrange for visits with key leaders on issues of interest, which can include making contacts to set up a schedule of visits. Federal Relations can staff your visits to congressional and agency offices, helping you navigate travel and protocol.

In addition, the Director of Government Relations supports UW Tacoma’s engagement with local military bases and veterans issues.

Related links:

State Relations

The Director of Government Relations works with state legislators, state-wide elected officials and state agency officials to advance the UW’s academic and legislative agenda. The office has three main areas of responsibility:

  • Facilitate positive relationships with state government with an emphasis on legislators in the South Puget Sound region
  • Advocate on behalf of the University
  • Provide support for units and individuals engaged with state government issues and activities

State agency lobbying is subject to the Public Disclosure Act, which provides comprehensive, specific and restrictive rules for state employees engaging in lobbying. Visit the Public Agency Lobbying page for more information.

Advocacy and Lobbying

As a state public agency, the UW is permitted to lobby state government using public funds but must adhere to state law and strict reporting requirements. Some activities are restricted or prohibited by law or UW administrative code.

Learn more about guidelines around lobbying.

Public Record Requests

Requests for public records for all UW campuses are managed through the Office of Public Records and Open Public Meetings. Any faculty or staff who are contacted directly by an individual or organization outside of the University and asked for records that are not publications or materials created for public distribution, should be referred to the Public Records office.

If you have questions about a request for public records, contact the UW Office of Public Records, pubrec@uw.edu, 206-543-9180.