Dear Spartan community,

Respecting the dignity of our Native American and Indigenous communities – past, present and future – is of the utmost importance for the CSU system in general, and San José State in particular. Our university maintains an extensive collection of Native American artifacts and human remains that is protected by state and federal laws. While a state auditor earlier this year commended SJSU for its compliance with these laws, there is still a need to ensure the continued protection of these items and ancestors until we reach our goal of complete repatriation.

An updated Presidential Directive outlining the university’s comprehensive repatriation policy is now in effect, set forth based on recommendations by the aforementioned state auditor. The policy is a living document that can be amended as needed, to best maintain SJSU’s commitment to respectfully preserving the heritage of our Native communities.

Sincerely,

Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson

President

(She/Her/Ella)