President's Messages

 

Happy Holidays & Save the Dates for Spring!

December 16, 2024

Please enjoy this holiday and end of the year . And as we look ahead to the new year, don’t forget to mark your calendar for our campus-wide block parties happening this spring!


WSCUC Accreditation Update & Offsite Review

December 3, 2024

We are excited to share the latest updates on our accreditation journey following the recent Offsite Review in October. Based upon the initial review from our review team, we are proud to report several commendations of our accomplishments and practices.


Fall Recess and Thanksgiving

November 20, 2024

As we approach the Fall Recess for students and faculty from November 25 – 29, 2024, I want to take this opportunity to share a message of gratitude and reflection with all of you.


Concerns About Safety and Well-Being of Our Campus Community

November 18, 2024

We are writing this email to update our campus community about the many concerns that have been brought to our attention from across campus regarding the safety, well-being, and support for specific members of our community who may be targeted by future federal legal action, regulatory restrictions, or hate and exclusion speech simply because we are a member of a community.


Post-election Support Resources

November 6, 2024

Like me, whether you are from the US or an international student, you likely stayed up late watching election returns and woke up to more news. You may have attended our campus election watch parties last night. Regardless of your political affiliation, I know that this week may be difficult for many as we go about our everyday business on campus and at home.


Update on Leadership Searches

October 23, 2024

I am writing today to update you on progress on our leadership searches.


Announcing Leadership Change

September 27, 2024

I am writing today to inform you that Dr. Suzanne Espinoza has resigned as Vice President, Student Affairs and Enrollment Management.


Findings on 2024 belong@csueastbay Campus Climate Survey

September 25, 2024

We are excited to invite you to an upcoming online webinar where we will present the findings from the belong@csueastbay Campus Climate Survey, conducted in April 2024.


Join us for Science in the Park October 5

September 19, 2024

I am writing to invite you to , a wonderful family-friendly event here at AVÀÇ, Saturday, October 5 (9am-3pm) at the Music Lawn area.


AVÀÇ Participates in 2024 Ballot Bowl: Voter Registration for November Elections

September 17, 2024

Today is National Voter Registration Day and once again our university is participating in the state's , a friendly competition among California colleges and universities to encourage students, faculty and staff to register to vote.


President's Budget Reduction Update

September 12, 2024

I am writing today with updated information on further budget reduction plans for this year.


Invitation to AVÀÇ HSI Summit on September 27th

September 5, 2024

We are pleased to extend an invitation to you to attend AVÀÇ’s HSI Summit taking place here on campus on Sept. 27, 2024 in VB 124.


Joint message from President and Senate Officers regarding College Reorganization Consultation Plan

September 3, 2024

The following message was shared with the AVÀÇ Academic Senate. Because this reorganization-consolidation is a university-wide effort, we thought it would be useful to share this document more broadly.


The 2024 Fall Convocation recording is now available

August 26, 2024

Thank you to everyone who was able to join us, either in person or remotely, for the 2024 Fall Convocation. President Sandeen's convocation presentation can be seen .


Campus update – MPP position eliminations

July 18, 2024

On Thursday, July 11, I shared an email update on our current budget situation and the need to move expeditiously to reduce costs and make progress on closing our significant structural deficit.


Update on Budget and Deficit Reduction Initiatives

July 11, 2024

I am writing today with an update on where we stand with our deficit reduction initiatives.


Announcing Interim Leadership for AY24-25

May 17, 2024

I am writing today with an update on two interim leadership positions at our university.


Announcing Our New Mascot

May 6, 2024

I am thrilled to share some exciting news aimed at enhancing our university pride and spirit.


Provost Search update

April 30, 2024

I am writing today to update you on our search for our next regularly appointed Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs.


Update: AVÀÇ Accreditation Reaffirmation Visit Spring 2025

April 24, 2024

In the fall of 2022, I announced the formal launch of the university-wide process for reaffirmation of our accreditation by the WASC Senior College and University Commission, a process that occurs at least every 10 years.


Ribbon-cutting for the Queer United Student Success Center

April 4, 2024

I am pleased to announce that on Thursday, April 18 during U-Hour, we will open and dedicate the Queer Unity Student Success Center (QUSSC) at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the DISC.


Progress Update: Future Directions SMART Actions

March 26, 2024

I'm reaching out today to share with you a high-level summary of the SMART Actions you all submitted last month.


Announcing Launch of Provost Search

March 12, 2024

I am writing today to inform you of the launch of our search for our next regularly appointed Provost/VP for Academic Affairs.


Title IX and DHR Update

March 11, 2024

I am reaching out today to provide an update on our ongoing efforts to enhance Title IX/DHR initiatives across our campus.


Upcoming Communications: Stay Tuned for Important Updates

March 8, 2024

I’m reaching out today to ensure that you are informed about important developments and initiatives within our institution.


Title IX Updates

January 17, 2024

Happy new year and new semester! I am reaching out today with some important updates.


Happy Holidays from President Sandeen

December 18, 2023

Please enjoy this holiday and end of the year  Thank you and have a wonderful winter break!


Future Directions SMART Action Update-Year One

December 14, 2023

Last year, we laid the groundwork for our Vision, Mission, and Future Direction Priorities. In response, every department on campus developed SMART actions to drive us closer to these goals.


Statement Condemning Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia

November 27, 2023

In light of continuing developments in Israel and Gaza, and the rise in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia across the U.S., we want to reiterate our support for the safety and well-being of all members of our community who are affected by this war.


A Message of Gratitude and Reflection

November 22, 2023

As we approach the Fall Recess, I want to take this opportunity to share a message of gratitude and reflection with all of you.


Update on the Concord Center

November 21, 2023

I am writing to provide you with an update on the outcomes of the Reimagining Concord Campus Task Force regarding the unique possibilities and challenges at our Concord location.


Update on Faculty-Staff Housing Task Force

November 20, 2023

I'm writing today to share updates on the Faculty and Staff Housing Task Force, which convened in 2019 prior to my appointment. Please see this report completed by the Task Force.


Update on Childcare Task Force

November 17, 2023

I am writing to provide an update on the decisions stemming from the Childcare Task Force (TF) findings.


College of Health Decision

November 16, 2023

I am writing today with my decision regarding a new College of Health.


Updates on Leadership Searches

November 15, 2023

I am writing today to provide a status report on a number of current leadership searches.


CSU Directive on Low Degree-Conferring Programs

October 31, 2023

I am writing today to provide you with information regarding the from the Chancellor’s Office concerning low degree-conferring programs.


I Stand with Immigrants

October 25, 2023

Today marks the 8th year of the national “I Stand with Immigrants” campaign which reminds our community to celebrate, appreciate, and learn about the powerful and crucial ways that immigrants contribute to the rich diversity of our nation.


Next Steps on the Working Professionals Task Force

October 12, 2023

I am writing today to share next steps following the final report of the Working Professionals Recruitment and Service Task Force. I appreciate all the feedback I received from our campus community about this report.


Next Steps on the Scaling Career Services Task Force

October 11, 2023

I am writing today to share next steps following the final report of the Scaling Career Services Task Force. I appreciate all the feedback I received from our campus community about this report.


Reminder of Support Resources Available Following Escalation in Middle East

October 10, 2023

Like many of you, I have been horrified at the terrible loss of life and violence in Israel and Gaza in the last few days. This historical conflict impacts the entire region in terms of loss of safety and a sense of humanity. I write out of concern for those in our campus community who are directly impacted with worry for the safety of their loved ones and for their communities.


VIDEO: Welcome/Welcome Back to AVÀÇ

August 21, 2023

It is such a joy for me to see our university come back to life with the start of fall semester, reminding me that AVÀÇ is, indeed, a special place to live, work and learn. I hope you join my sense of optimism as we venture into a new academic year. Please view this brief "Welcome Back" video that highlights some recent changes on the Hayward campus.


State of California Title IX Audit Report

July 18, 2023

As mentioned in my email yesterday, a State of California Audit Report on the CSU System's handling of sexual assault and harassment complaints was released today and can be viewed .


Cozen O'Connor Assessment Report

July 17, 2023

I am writing to update you on the Cozen O’Connor assessment report.


Mildred García Appointed 11th CSU Chancellor

July 12, 2023

I am sharing with you a message from the Chancellor’s Office about today’s appointment of Mildred García as AVÀÇ’s 11th chancellor. 


Conclusion of Cozen O’Connor Assessment

April 7, 2023

Thank you for your involvement and engagement as we worked with Cozen O'Connor. 


A Message from Interim Chancellor - President Sandeen Triennial Review

March 22, 2023

I am sharing with you a message to our CSU community from Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester.


Recreation and University Union - Proposed Fee Increases

March 13, 2023

During the fall term, I convened the Recreation and University Union Task Force to explore the feasibility of fee increases to correct urgent budget shortfalls and better support current and future operations of the Recreation and Wellness(RAW) and University Union(UU). 


Financial Stability Process Memo

March 6, 2023

I am writing today to initiate a broad and inclusive process to address and improve the financial stability of our university. 


Deep Dive into Future Directions

February 20, 2023

Congratulations and thank you!  You have worked hard to identify and formalize SMART Actions based on the five priority areas outlined through our Future Directions process.  I hope you will join us for another "Deep Dive Look At..." session to provide you with high-level campus highlights about the identified Divisional SMART Actions. 


CSU Budget Reallocation Update

February 2, 2023

I am writing today to share our plans for increasing our undergraduate enrollment, especially in light of AVÀÇ’s (CSU) intention to reallocate state funding.


Letter to Our Campus Community: The Death of Tyre Nichols

January 27, 2023

Like you, I am angry and saddened at the loss of Tyre Nichols to police brutality. 


Announcing new Working Professional Recruitment and Service Task Force

January 26, 2023

I am writing today to formally launch and provide details on our new Working Professional Recruitment and Service Task Force. 


Announcing new College of Health Implementation Task Force

January 25, 2023

I am writing today to formally launch and to provide you with details on our new College of Health Implementation Task Force. 


Announcing new Scaling Career Services Task Force

January 25, 2023

I am writing today to formally launch and to provide you with details on our new Scaling Career Services Task Force. 


Support for Lunar New Year Tragedy

January 23, 2023

We are writing to express our support for our campus AAPI community. 


Title IX/DHR Update

January 5, 2023

I’m writing today to provide an update on changes in our Title IX/DHR unit.


Kathleen Wong(Lau), Ph.D. Named University Diversity Officer

December 16, 2022

I am pleased to announce that Kathleen Wong(Lau) has accepted the position as AVÀÇ’s incoming University Diversity Officer. She will join us January 17, 2023.


Reimagining the Concord Campus Update

December 15, 2022

I appreciate the comments and feedback I have received from so many of you in response to our Reimagining the Concord Campus Task Force Report. Though our work in Contra Costa County and the Concord campus will evolve over the next six months, I'm happy to share my preliminary thinking and decisions.


Staff Wellness, Enrichment and Engagement Team (SWEET)

November 8, 2022

I am most pleased to announce the formation of our new Staff Wellness, Enrichment and Engagement Team (SWEET).


Sharing the Reimagining the Concord Campus Task Force Report

October 31, 2022

I am writing today to share with you the report from the Reimagining the Concord Campus Task Force. The charge to the Task Force was to develop recommendations beyond expanding degree programs, to improve utilization of the Concord campus and service to the Contra Costa County Community.


Upcoming Title IX Organizational Assessment

October 11, 2022

I am writing today with a reminder about the Title IX organizational policy and practice assessment visit that will occur later this month.


Recent DACA Decision and Our Response

October 6, 2022

Yesterday, undocumented students received another round of unsettling news as the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals decided to uphold the State of Texas, et al., v. United States (2021) ruling against the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program. This action creates uncertainty and unnecessary stress for future Dreamers. I denounce this decision and remind our undocumented students and employees that there are many who stand with you.


AVÀÇ Accreditation Reaffirmation Visit Spring 2025

September 26, 2022

I hope this first month of the academic year has been off to a great start. This is indeed an exciting time at AVÀÇ with more in-person activity and as we affirm and begin to implement high-level priorities for the university’s future.


Important Message Regarding Title IX to the CSU Community from Interim Chancellor Koester

June 23, 2022

I am sharing with you a message to our CSU community from Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester.


With Renewed Commitment to Serve Our Black Community

June 20, 2022

Last week the CSU concluded its inaugural , jointly hosted by CSU Dominguez Hills. Our campus had amazing representation at this hybrid event, with two dozen AVÀÇ students, faculty and staff attending in person and many more online. 


A Message from Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester

May 27, 2022

I am sharing with you a message to our CSU community from Interim Chancellor Jolene Koester.


Staff Salary Equity Study

May 20, 2022

As you may recall, the 2021-22 California budget included special one-time funding for the CSU System, directing them to conduct a staff salary equity study. 


Diversity Office Update

May 10, 2022

I am writing today to provide the most current update on plans for the AVÀÇ Office of Diversity.


Near-Final Future Directions Draft for Feedback

April 13, 2022

I am very pleased to share with you the latest and near final draft of priorities/desired outcomes/examples of actions developed through our year-long Future Directions Process.


Evelyn Buchanan Appointed Vice President for University Advancement

March 23, 2022

I am pleased to announce that Evelyn Buchanan has accepted the role of Vice President for University Advancement. She will join us May 2.


Applied Sciences Center Receives Full Donor Funding

March 15, 2022

I am extremely pleased to share with you that the university has successfully raised the private funds for the new Applied Sciences Center. This 21,000 square foot building will be situated adjacent to North Science, with plans to open in Spring 2024. 


Grand Opening of Student Success Centers on Thursday, March 17 

March 14, 2022

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).


Myeshia Armstrong Appointed Vice President for Administration & Finance

March 7, 2022

I am pleased to announce that Myeshia Armstrong has accepted the position as AVÀÇ’s new Vice President for Administration & Finance. She will join us June 1.


 A message from President Sandeen regarding CSU Trustees' acceptance of Chancellor Castro's resignation

February 18, 2022

I am extremely grateful that the CSU Board of Trustees has taken a strong and decisive stand against gender-based harassment, misconduct and retaliation through their action yesterday.


Walt Jacobs, Ph.D., named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

February 17, 2022

I am pleased to announce that Walt Jacobs, Ph.D., has accepted the position of Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at AVÀÇ. He will begin his new post July 1, 2022.


Professor Enrique Salmón appointed as AVÀÇ Inaugural Tribal Liaison

February 15, 2022

I am writing today to inform you of the appointment of Professor Enrique Salmón as AVÀÇ’s Tribal Liaison. This is a new part-time role, reporting to the president, in addition to his primary role as Professor of Ethnic Studies.


AVÀÇ Title IX Responsibilities to Our Community

February 7, 2022

I am writing to affirm AVÀÇ’s commitment to maintaining a learning, living, and working environment free from discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and sexual misconduct.


AVÀÇ to Return to Scheduled Course Delivery Monday, Jan. 31

January 26, 2022

After careful consideration, I have decided that the university will conclude its temporary remote course delivery this Friday as planned. On Monday, Jan. 31, we will return to the instructional modality as listed in the Spring 2022 schedule.


AVÀÇ Named to #CaliforniansForAll College Corps

January 18, 2022

On this first day of the Spring semester, I have terrific news to share with you. AVÀÇ was named one of 45 campuses statewide for the inaugural 


Welcome to Spring Semester! A Message from President Sandeen

January 18, 2022

I wanted to share a greeting and a brief update in this video on what to expect as classes begin this week. Thank you all for your flexibility as we balance the health and safety of our university community during the Omicron surge with our intention to resume vital in-person classes and activities once the surge begins to plateau.


Update on the Beginning of Spring 2022 Semester

January 6, 2022

In an effort to greatly reduce population density on our campuses, AVÀÇ will temporarily begin the first two weeks of Spring 2022 semester with fully remote instruction.


CSU to Require Vaccination Boosters

December 22, 2021

AVÀÇ, along with the entire CSU System, will implement a COVID-19 booster documentation requirement.


Telecommuting Program to Begin January 2022

December 2, 2021

I am pleased to  that our university is one of the first in the Cal State system to implement a telecommuting program, beginning in January 2022. 


With Gratitude, from President Sandeen

November 18, 2021

With the Thanksgiving/fall break upon us, I wanted to wish you a wonderful time with your families and friends in .


Launching Our Future Directions Strategic Planning Initiative

September 14, 2021

Please join us for a virtual Campus Town Hall on Wednesday, September 22, from 12:30 – 2 p.m., to formally launch the “Future Directions” strategic planning initiative. Future Directions is an opportunity for us to reimagine (or reaffirm) AVÀÇ's vision, mission, and high-level priorities to welcome a new era for the university. 


My Story, My Truth Assessment of Learning, Living and Working Results

September 8, 2021

The week of September 20, the university will release the results from the My Story, My Truth climate assessment — the assessment of learning, living and working that our students, faculty and staff were invited to participate in last winter. 


In Support of Our DACA Students

August 13, 2021

One of the most beautiful traits of our university is the diversity of the AVÀÇ family. I am saddened, frustrated and angry that there are some throughout our nation who do not support, and actually work against, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policies. 


CSU COVID-19 vaccination requirement for students, faculty and staff

July 27, 2021

The  that it will require immunization against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, from students, faculty and staff who will be on a CSU campus beginning with the Fall 2021 semester. 


Updated university guidance on face coverings

June 30, 2021

AVÀÇ is updating our face covering guidelines, in accordance with recent Cal/OSHA revisions. , I share more information about how this affects our employee groups. Additionally, Risk Management will be sending more detailed information about face coverings this afternoon.


Looking forward to seeing everyone again

May 26, 2021

An update for the community as AVÀÇ prepares to open its campus to more students, faculty and staff starting this summer and continuing into Fall 2021.


CSU to require immunization against COVID-19

April 22, 2021

Today, the AVÀÇ, along with the University of California,  to require faculty, staff and students who access campus facilities this fall to be immunized against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The requirement will be conditional upon full approval of one or more vaccines by the FDA.


If one of us, then all of us: A statement asking for grace, compassion and togetherness

April 20, 2021

What happens to one happens to us all. It was nearly a year ago when we first witnessed, with horror, the public murder of George Floyd. Now we write to you again in response to the verdict in the trial of the police officer who knelt on his neck.  


Looking Forward Beyond COVID-19

April 14, 2021

As we watch vaccinations rates rise and COVID-19 positivity rates fall in our counties and state, many of you have questions about what to expect this summer and fall.


Housing Task Force Report

April 7, 2021

I am writing today to share the AVÀÇ Faculty and Staff Housing Task Force Report. The task force began in 2019 to explore and recommend tangible steps we can take in the short and long term to provide access to more affordable housing options.


COVID-19 One Year Later

March 12, 2021

One year ago, at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, I never imagined how this virus would change nearly everything about how we live, work, teach and learn. I am inspired by how well this community responded by rolling up its sleeves, getting to work, and using creativity and ingenuity to keep our mission at the center of every decision we have made.


Establishment of Affinity-Based Student Success Centers

February 24, 2021

I am writing today to announce a decision that I believe has been on the minds of many of you for some time: establishing affinity-based student success centers with dedicated space on AVÀÇ’s Hayward campus.


Post-COVID Opportunity Scan

February 1, 2021

I am writing today to launch a brainstorming and planning initiative this semester that I hope will broadly engage our university community.


VIDEO: Welcome to Spring 2021 Semester

January 19, 2021

I am so pleased to greet you today, on the first day of the Spring 2021 term. I recently joined the AVÀÇ community as your new President, and I wanted  as you continue in your studies during this remarkable time.


Our Role in Preserving Our Democracy

January 7, 2021

I am writing today to share with you my outrage and sadness at the attempt to disrupt our democratic process we all witnessed yesterday in our nation’s Capitol. Having lived in Washington DC, having walked the halls of the Capitol many times, I could not imagine those historic hallways becoming the site of such appalling violence and insurrection in my lifetime.

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VIDEO: A Greeting from President Cathy Sandeen

January 4, 2021

President Cathy Sandeen introduces herself to AVÀÇ in her welcome message on her first day leading the Pioneer community.