September 12, 2025
Dear Sonoma State Community,
Like most of you, I was horrified by the shooting attack at Utah Valley University on Wednesday that killed Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk as he was speaking to a crowd of students, faculty, and staff.
Such incidents spark strong perspectives and feelings, and affect our community in different ways. Regardless, one thing remains true at Sonoma State University – we condemn all acts of violence as senseless and unjust. No matter our individual views or affiliations, differing viewpoints should be respected and debated peacefully. Freedom of expression, carried out with civility, is fundamental to our mission, our core values, and our democracy.
Resources are available for those in the SSU community impacted by such events:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153.
- Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available for any staff and faculty seeking support. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698.
- Another resource is the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) which can provide supportive measures and receive complaints related to sexual misconduct, harassment, and discrimination on behalf of the university. OPHD can be reached at 707-664-4140.
We must all remember that compassion, kindness, and humanistic care for one another make all the difference, as does the Seawolf Commitment of integrity, respect, excellence, and responsibility.
We stand for peace.
Emily F. Cutrer
Interim President