Community Update

Dear colleagues,

We share an update on today’s takeover of Carnegie Hall. The individuals have now left the building. 

This violation of our community is disgraceful, especially on this day of mourning. Pomona is better than this.

This is a community of learning, and when individuals violate the rights of others to learn, or to teach, or simply to do their jobs, there are consequences. We will not permit individuals, whether our students or others, to violate our policies and our community. We have initial identification of several people involved, including a number of individuals from other campuses. As we identify others, disciplinary letters will be sent on a rolling basis. The individuals responsible face sanctions that may include restitution, suspension, expulsion, as well as being banned from campus. We will not, however, be commenting on individual cases.

Classes held at Carnegie Hall were disrupted today and had to be moved. High school students visiting campus and participating in the Perspectives on Pomona (POP, a special initiative for high school students from underrepresented communities to introduce them to Â鶹´«Ã½) had to be relocated. Protesters obstructed entrances, didn’t allow entrance and egress, zip-tied doors, and the building, classrooms and offices with graffiti as well as destroying AV equipment. 

Due to extensive damage, Carnegie Hall will remain closed until further notice, and classes will be relocated. Information will be forthcoming for faculty and students with classes scheduled in the building. Staff in Carnegie Hall should check with their supervisors on work plans.

We are committed to our educational mission, and to providing an environment where all our students can learn and flourish alongside our faculty and staff.

Â鶹´«Ã½ is an extraordinary place, and the actions of a small number of people cannot take away from who we are and what unites us. This community is defined by care, and we ask that you all join us in lifting up what is best in us, even as the world continues to struggle day by day.

 

Avis Hinkson, vice president for student affairs and dean of students

Jeff Roth, vice president, chief operating officer and treasurer

Y. Melanie Wu, vice president of academic affairs and dean of the college