Students graduating soon at the University of Tampa call the university's decision to hold a virtual commencement ceremony this spring "devastating."

Jacie Steele said she always imagined walking across the stage to accept her diploma in person.

"I looked forward to this and I worked really, really hard and I want this," she said.

School officials sent an announcement about the virtual commencement decision out to students on Thursday.

They blamed the "uncertainty" of COVID-19 for the decision.

In the statement, administrators cited advice from public health officials and said, "The university could not realistically host a safe — yet meaningful — academic celebration in person."

But students are suggesting alternatives.

They wonder if it would be possible to hold smaller ceremonies outside on campus, spread out over several days, with limited attendance and COVID screening procedures.

"It just feels as though the school had it very black and white of either we're having it or we're not, rather than making the best accommodations for their students," said Allison Clark.

Students are also expressing frustration that two weeks ago, the waterfront, which includes areas by the campus, was packed with people for the Bucs Super Bowl boat parade. They call it a "double standard."

"It's so confusing to see that being prioritized over our own graduation. It's really hurtful and I don't understand it," said Emma Stange.

The students started a petition online asking the university to reconsider its graduation plans and thousands of people have signed it.

"This is something that so many people can relate to because either they've done it, they look forward to doing it or they're in this right now and they want to do it," Steele said.

School officials said the virtual graduation ceremony will be held on May 8, at 11 a.m.

It will include remarks from dignitaries along with videos submitted by students.