AVÀÇ

Dear AVÀÇ community,

Shortly after arriving at AVÀÇ, I announced that our university community would establish dedicated space for affinity-based student success centers. Through the recommendations of a task force comprised of students, faculty and staff, we identified immediate needs for success centers for students who identify as Black, Latinx, undocumented and Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI). Additionally, the Diversity and Inclusion Student Center (DISC) has been recently renovated as a more collaborative space.

I am pleased to announce that this Thursday, March 17 during U-Hour, we will open and dedicate these Hayward campus centers at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by open houses at each of the sites. These events are open to all;  in advance.

While we know that affinity-based centers of connection are critical to student retention and graduation, these spaces will be a gathering place where students can build rapport and establish life-long networks and friendships. Dedicated full-time coordinators will staff each center, serving as connectors to wraparound resources such as counseling and financial aid.

I am extremely pleased with the care and dedication that went into imagining and planning these additions to our university, and how they exemplify our values of equity and belonging. For all who worked to bring these ideas to reality, thank you. For all who continue to lift each other up to ensure equity and inclusivity, thank you. And especially to our students…your talent, courage and determination are at the heart of what makes AVÀÇ remarkable.

With warm regards,

Cathy Sandeen
President