TO: Campus Community
FR: Emily F. Cutrer, Interim President
Dear Sonoma State University Community,
As we continue to navigate the budgetary challenges faced by our campus, I would like to take a moment to share an update about the University’s senior administration team. As part of the changes to our organizational structure necessitated by these challenges, I have made the difficult decision to end the position of Chief of Staff and Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Diversity. In response to that news, Dr. Jerlena Griffin-Desta has decided to retire from the university.
I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the leadership that Dr. Griffin-Desta has demonstrated at Sonoma State. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on our university, particularly in advancing strategic initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment. Her leadership was essential in these areas at a critical time in our institution’s history, and we remain committed to continuing this important work to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across our campus and in the communities we serve.
Responsibilities within the chief of staff’s portfolio have been realigned to ensure that we maintain momentum with these initiatives and continue to effectively serve our community:
- The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion will be integrated into the Division of Student Affairs, under the leadership of Dr. Gerald Jones, Vice President for Student Affairs.
- The Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) will be overseen by Dr. Karen Moranski, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
- The Office of Strategic Communications and Government Relations will be incorporated into University Advancement, under the guidance of Dr. Mario Perez, Vice President for University Advancement.
Contacts for questions related to these areas:
- For diversity and equity support, contact Tramaine Austin-Dillon, diversity@sonoma.edu.
- For Title IX and other harassment/discrimination issues, contact Julie Vivas, ophd@sonoma.edu
- For communications and government relations support, contact Jeff Keating, stratcomm@sonoma.edu
I understand that transitions can be challenging, and I appreciate your understanding and support during this time of change. It is our collective responsibility to continue working together to advance Sonoma State University and uphold the values that make our institution a standard bearer for learning, growth, student success, and community-building.
Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our university. Together, I am confident that we will navigate these changes and emerge even stronger.