Dear Spartan Community,

I am saddened by the two violent incidents over the weekend and want to express my support for those who have been harmed and affected in our community. One was a hateful attack on an SJSU student, and the other was a shooting where two lives were lost. 

It is deeply upsetting that Saturday’s assault was motivated by our student’s Sikh identity. Hate, discrimination and violence have no place in our community, nor anywhere that seeks to uphold the values of knowledge, understanding and peace. Hate crimes are evil acts that harm entire communities, and I applaud all who have already reached out in support of our Sikh students, faculty, and staff. 

Shortly after the report of the assault, Student Affairs and ODEI began working to provide support resources for our community via SJSU Cares. Same-day services are available today through Counseling & Psychological Support Services (CAPS), and counselors will be in the Community Care and Support Spaces across campus beginning at noon today and as needed the remainder of the week. These spaces are in:

• Student Union, Room 3B
• Student Wellness Center, Room 122
• Spartan Village on the Paseo - 2nd floor conference room
• International House - 1st floor
• Campus Village 2 (CV2) -1st floor multipurpose room
  
  Support resources for employees remain available, as well. 

I am working with our campus leadership team to identify and implement any additional measures needed to heal and further strengthen our community.

I want to take a moment to commend the actions of our first responders and campus personnel who addressed the two incidents professionally and quickly. Campus teams had been planning for Super Bowl weekend for months, including coordination with the City of San José. 

Sunday’s homicides remain under investigation. While no connection to our campus has been found, we always work to support local public safety efforts.

Please, if you feel unsafe, or if you witness concerning behavior, contact University Police, and I encourage everyone to download the Spartan Safe app. 

Thank you for your ongoing support of one another and living up to our ideals of Spartans taking care of Spartans. All Spartans deserve a campus that remains a place of safety, respect, and learning for all.

Sincerely,

Dr. Cynthia Teniente-Matson

President

(She/Her/Ella

Dear SJSU Campus Community,