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Over the past year, the university convened an Athletics Consultation Task Force with the charge of exploring the future of athletics at Sonoma State University. Its work resulted in a white paper that recommended reinstating NCAA Division II competition. Moving in that direction, however, requires confidence that the program can be sustained through a sound financial model that supports its success long term.
As I shared during my January 30, 2026 virtual press conference, we have established an Athletics Fiscal Feasibility Committee to evaluate how NCAA Division II Athletics could be sustained in a way that aligns with the university’s academic mission and fiscal responsibilities. The committee, co-chaired by Dr. Mario A. Perez and Dr. Gerald L. Jones, will assess potential funding models, long-term operating costs, enrollment and student impact, and overall alignment with institutional priorities. Its membership includes students, staff, faculty, managers, former student athletes and coaches, and community members with subject-matter expertise in finance, academics, student success, and athletics. The committee’s final recommendation is expected no later than mid-June.
While we await the committee’s recommendation – and in light of the decision to postpone reinstatement until a sustainable plan is in place – I am extending Interim President Emily Cutrer’s approval of the Instructionally Related Activities (IRA) funding allocations as recommended by the Student Fee Advisory Committee (SFAC) for an additional year.
Therefore, for the 2026–27 academic year, IRA funding will continue to support the following seven programs: Career Pathways and Preparation, The HUB, Club Sports, Children’s School, Library Extended Hours, Performing Arts, and Arts Integration, along with funding for the annually supported program pool.
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Dear Campus Community,
Today, I write to share the bittersweet news of significant leadership changes at Sonoma State University, effective July 1, 2025. The transitions have been brought on by unique personal opportunities and circumstances that are positive for the individuals directly involved, but together, they represent a profound moment of change for our campus community.
As you might be aware, a Sonoma County judge on Tuesday issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) requiring Sonoma State to pause the proposed implementation of cuts to six academic departments and 22 majors. The reductions were proposed as part of a larger plan to close the university’s projected $23.9-million deficit in 2025-26.
The TRO lasts until May 1.
As Sonoma State University continues to develop the plan that will shape our future, it is essential that it reflect the aspirations of our community. I am reaching out to you – students, faculty, staff, alumni, boards, and others – to solicit your valuable input as the plan enters its final stages.
At the Spring Budget and Planning Forum on March 13, a number of questions were asked about how the University Budget Advisory Committee (UBAC) proposals would be considered and evaluated. In an effort to provide more clarity on the UBAC Call for proposals, including the ranking rubric for submitted proposals and a detailed timeline, please see the information below.
Dear Campus Community,
As we continue shaping the future of the California State University through our systemwide strategic planning process, your insights and perspectives remain vitally important. We are entering the second phase of stakeholder engagement and invite and strongly encourage you to participate in one of our upcoming virtual town hall sessions to share your thoughts on the future direction of the CSU.