TO: Campus Community
FR: Dr. Gerald L. Jones, Vice President for Student Affairs & Acting Senior Diversity Officer
Dear Campus Community:
Sonoma State University prides itself on being a place where the peaceful exchange of ideas is encouraged, where collaboration and cooperation mark every discussion, and where mutual respect and understanding are a given.
As the country nears Election Day 2024 on November 5, it is essential that we continue to embrace and practice these values while remembering that students, faculty, staff, and visitors to our campus must feel safe when they are here. Elections, and election results, can provoke emotional responses; at such times, it is incumbent upon us all to remember that in our shared environment, we have an obligation to preserve a climate of respect, empathy and integrity.
Sonoma State will have these supportive measures in place during Election Week, including Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) events:
Tuesday, November 5
Noon to 2 p.m. (Erin Fisher Room): Election Day Chill Space with pizza, art projects, and self-care
Wednesday, November 6
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Additional capacity at CAPS for drop-in therapy for those impacted by elections
11 a.m. to noon (Bennett Valley Room) and 4 to 5 p.m. (Russian River Valley Room): Post-election support with CAPS
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (HUB Cultural Center): Peaceful Pause. Come relax, recharge, and reflect post-election. Snacks provided.
Thursday, November 7
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Additional capacity at CAPS for drop-in therapy for those impacted by elections
11 a.m. to noon and 4 to 5 p.m. (Sonoma Valley Room): Post-election support with CAPS
Additionally, if you are impacted by sexual misconduct, harassment or discrimination based upon a protected class, contact the Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination (OPHD) which can assist with supportive measures, resources, and information about resolution/reporting options. OPHD can be reached at 707-664-4140 or ophd@sonoma.edu.
Finally, don't forget that you can VOTE ON CAMPUS. You can drop your ballot off in the ballot box near the flagpoles, or drop off your ballot or vote in person (if you're registered in Sonoma County) at the polling location in the Castentino Room, Tuscany Village, starting on Saturday, November 2.
For more information, check out the CCE blog about Campus Voting.