Welcome to a new academic year
Dear Beach Community:
No matter how long some of us have been in education, the start of a new academic year brings a renewed sense of promise and purpose.
This year is no different. The months ahead hold great things for our community as we also reflect on the enduring legacy of this university during our 75th-anniversary celebration.
I offer special greetings to those new to The Beach: students just beginning their programs, faculty starting the next impactful phase of their careers, and staff electing to make this a part of their professional journeys.
With the excitement of a new year also comes the reality that this is a world that continues to confront wars, political uncertainty and polarizing disinformation. At The Beach, we’ve grappled with these realities together and will continue to do so.
A university is among the best places where we can explore and debate difficult issues with civility and mutual respect, and find and build community.
There will be deadly conflict, election results we may disagree with, divisive court decisions, and tragedies caused by both nature and humans. We must find strength through our relationships and shared commitment to this transformative educational environment as we work through these inevitable events.
At times, some in our community may feel themselves called to protest what they regard as injustice in the world. We welcome that as both a constitutional right and as expressive action consistent with an educational environment. We have an obligation, however, not to allow expression, irrespective of viewpoint, to substantially disrupt our core mission. To that end, we will enforce our “Time, Place and Manner” policy to protect the rights of free speech, the safety of both those engaging in protest activity and those choosing not to, and the fundamental operational responsibilities of the university.
In the year ahead and beyond, we must also care for each other, and ensure The Beach is a place free from discrimination or harassment.
Here and throughout the California State University system, we are working to create processes that are easy for everyone to access, response systems that are supportive and compassionate, and complaint resolution that is prompt, fair and meaningful.
And, of course, we are working to bolster education and communication around our community expectations, with the hope of promoting understanding.
Our shared goal is to create the strongest possible culture of respect and care across the CSU, while ensuring the free and robust exchange of ideas. You have my commitment that we will be working every day to achieve this. If you have questions about our civil rights programs or need support, please contact our Office of Equity and Compliance here at The Beach.
I wish you every success in the coming months. I remain deeply proud to be in this remarkable community with all of you.
Go Beach!
Jane Close Conoley, Ph.D.
President
