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This message was sent Aug. 20, 2024, to Cal State Monterey Bay students, faculty, and staff by President Vanya Quiñones and Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Ben Corpus

Dear Campus Community,

As we begin this academic year, the Chancellor’s Office (CO) is implementing a new system-wide  in response to recent state legislation. This policy introduces new restrictions, including prohibiting encampments and building occupations, and limiting demonstrations to designated areas and times on campus. To help the Cal State Monterey Bay community navigate these changes, we have created a  that includes the new policy, a link to the CO’s frequently asked questions and other relevant information such as campus resources.

 on Aug. 20. Our Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs is actively working with student groups to ensure everyone understands the policy and what activities are considered protected forms of expression within its guidelines.

At ºÚÁÏÉçapp, we are committed to upholding freedom of speech and fostering open dialogue on important issues. We strive to create a safe and productive environment while respecting the new policy's constraints. 

As an educational institution, our foremost duty is to create a learning environment that nurtures the pursuit of knowledge, and the educational growth of our students. Thus, we are dedicated to ensuring that open and respectful dialogue thrives. I am confident that our community will continue to express even the most controversial or dissenting viewpoints in a manner that is peaceful, constructive and respectful, without provocation, intimidation or harassment.

The Office of Inclusive Excellence, the Ombuds Office, the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs and the Wellness Coordinator will also provide spaces for open discussions — stay tuned for more information on scheduled activities. Information will be posted online when available on the  and  websites. Additionally, the Academic Senate will establish an interfaith council this semester to encourage additional dialogue. More details will be shared as this initiative develops. 

Ben Corpus, vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, has been designated as the TPM liaison with the Chancellor’s Office. If you have any questions about the policy or wish to arrange a presentation for your group, please email the Dean of Students. 

Campus resources are available for students, faculty, and staff. Students can use the , the ,  and contact the . Employees can utilize the  and can participate in .

Thank you for your cooperation in adhering to this policy as we continue to support freedom of expression at Cal State Monterey Bay.

Best regards,

Vanya Quiñones, Ph.D.
President

Ben Corpus, Ph.D.
Vice President,
Enrollment Management
and Student Affairs