The academic year is well underway and my hope is that you are fully engaged in this vibrant learning community. As your new vice chancellor of Student Affairs, I write to remind you of your rights and responsibilities as members of our UC Santa Cruz community. Over the course of the Fall Quarter, there have been several incidents that have been harmful to our campus environment and given cause for concern. The actions of a few individuals have, at times, negatively impacted our campus climate and jeopardized the safety of others. Most recently, there has been a rash of vandalism, unruly and aggressive protest activity, graffiti, and insensitive acts that have caused others to feel unwelcome and disrespected. (Please see campus message from Chancellor George Blumenthal and Campus Provost/EVC David Kliger about this week's demonstration.)
UCSC is a community that values the free and open exchange of ideas in the pursuit of knowledge. We are committed to maintaining a culture of civility, objectivity, inquiry and learning -- one that is free of coercion, intimidation, and dehumanization. As members of this community we all share an obligation to uphold the Principles of Community and abide by the student Code of Conduct. I ask that you familiarize yourself with the resources listed below, as they will help you to better understand the policies and standards of behavior to which students are accountable. These community standards exist to ensure a safe and welcoming campus environment for all students, and we will respond with appropriate consequences for those who violate university policy and/or the law. Most importantly, we must demonstrate respect for difference, openness to new ideas and perspectives, and a willingness to work and learn together in an inclusive and safe environment.
Please know that the Division of Student Affairs stands ready to assist you throughout your academic journey, and we welcome any questions or concerns you may have regarding rules, policies, or the Principles of Community. For more information, please contact the Student Judicial Affairs office at 459-1738 or the Dean of Students at 459-4446. Also feel free to visit me during my open office hours on Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in Kerr Hall.
I wish you a very successful academic year and look forward to dialoguing with you about how, together, we can each contribute to a positive, welcoming and inclusive campus climate.
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Student Policy and Regulation Handbook:
http://www2.ucsc.edu/judicial/handbook.shtml
I encourage you to review the handbook, whether you are a new or returning student, as it outlines all relevant policies and procedures related to being a student at UCSC.
UCSC Principles of Community:
http://www.ucsc.edu/about/principles_community.asp
This values statement outlines our commitment to promoting and protecting an environment that values and supports every UCSC community member in an atmosphere of civility, honesty, cooperation, professionalism, and fairness.
Hate or Bias Related Incidents:
https://sa-web.ucsc.edu/judicial/incident.cfm
UCSC is committed to a hate-free campus and a community of inclusiveness. All individuals are valued members of the community.
