Sonoma State University

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Latest Update

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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Campus Community,

Dear Campus Community,

So many wonderful celebrations are happening this month. Last weekend we celebrated the Commencement ceremony of the Class of 2020, and this coming weekend we expect to celebrate more than 1,500 graduates from the Class of 2021. 

Dear Campus Community,

Spring is the season of new beginnings, transformation and growth. We are seeing it in the blossoms that have been plentiful on campus and the wildflowers and greenery that are blanketing the surrounding hills. I hope you have had a chance to get out and revel in the beauty of our region. There is so much happening on campus that I want to take this opportunity to provide an update. 

Dear Campus Community,

Dear Campus Community,

Dear Campus Community,

Dear Campus Community,

 
Dear Campus Community,

I write to you at the start of another month that already feels tumultuous, with COVID cases rising around the country and our attention riveted on the election results of so many national, state, and local races.

Dear Campus Community,

These last few weeks have felt especially turbulent – both locally within our beautiful North Bay, and more broadly across the country – and I realize that this turbulence comes in the wake of several months of relative instability. 2020 is certainly a year that will stand out in our collective memory at Sonoma State.

Dear Campus Community,

I’m delighted to welcome you to a new academic year at Sonoma State.