John Carmichael, Ph.D., President, The Evergreen State College
Dexter Gordon, Ph.D., Executive Vice President, The Evergreen State College
Board of Trustees – via A. Beattie – The Evergreen State College
Introduction:
The Geoduck Student Union Leadership Team, representing the student body of Evergreen State College, writes to express our unwavering commitment to fostering a safe, transparent, and thriving academic community. We believe that enhanced collaboration and access to information are crucial to achieving this goal and respectfully propose the following initiatives to strengthen the relationship between the student body and the administration. In particular, regarding the issues of the last week, as representatives of the Geoduck Student Union (GSU), we express our disappointment in the recent approach to student engagement and communication. The lack of proactive outreach and partnership with student government has highlighted an uncomfortable power dynamic and a communication gap within our college community. Moving forward, we expect and advocate for a more inclusive approach that values and seeks student input actively.
Concerns Regarding Recent Campus Investigation:
While recognizing the efforts made during the recent campus investigation community webinar, we must express our deep concerns regarding the inadequacies in the information provided, particularly about the operations of Residential and Dining Services (RAD). Under the interim direction of Susan Hopp, who reports to Holly Joseph, and in conjunction with Lori Johnson, the Associate Director for Residential Life who reports to Susan, there seems to be a significant lack of clarity. The role of Ray Ruiz, RAD Buildings and Facilities Supervisor, reporting to Evergreen CAO William Ward, also remains unclear. Equally concerning is the absence of discussion about internal campus processes overseen by Connie Brangard, Director of Title IX and Cleary issues. Our primary worry centers around the operational dynamics and the execution of crucial health and safety checks during week 6 within RAD Residential Life. These inadequately addressed issues have led to a growing unease among the student body, exacerbated by the critical role that RAD facilities play in ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on campus.
Proposals for Collaborative Improvements:
To bridge these informational gaps and build a more unified campus environment, we propose the following initiatives:
1. Comprehensive Review of RAD Operations: We call for a transparent and thorough audit of RAD operations, critically evaluating the roles, responsibilities, and effectiveness of Ms. Hopp, Ms. Johnson, and Mr. Ruiz. This review should place particular emphasis on the implementation and efficacy of health and safety protocols during week 6.
2. Formalized Student Engagement Mechanism: We urge the establishment of a structured framework for active student participation in decision-making processes directly impacting student life. This framework could include:
- Dedicated Student Representatives on Relevant Committees: Appointing student representatives to relevant committees would ensure student voices are heard and considered in critical decision-making processes.
- Regular Student Forums: Establishing regular forums for open dialogue and gathering student feedback on key initiatives would foster a more collaborative environment.
3. Enhanced Commitment to Open Communication: We advocate for a clear and unwavering commitment to open and transparent communication from the administration. This includes:
- Timely and Detailed Updates: Disseminating timely and detailed information on matters of critical importance,particularly those concerning student safety and well-being.
- Clear and Accessible Communication Channels: Creating readily accessible channels for students to receive information and raise concerns.
4. Regular Administrative Briefings and Student Engagement Sessions: To facilitate ongoing dialogue and transparency, we propose establishing:
- Scheduled Administrative Briefings: Regular administrative briefings would provide updates on ongoing initiatives and allow students to ask questions and offer feedback.
- Dedicated Student Engagement Sessions: Hosting dedicated sessions focused solely on student concerns and questions would foster a more direct and meaningful dialogue between students and the administration.
5. Open Forum for Direct Student-Administration Interaction: We request the creation of regular, open forums for direct communication between students and the administration, including the Board of Trustees. These forums would serve as a valuable platform for:
- Two-Way Exchange of Ideas: Students and administrators could share ideas, concerns, and suggestions in a collaborative and respectful environment.
- Enhanced Collaboration and Shared Responsibility: Fostering a collaborative spirit and promoting shared responsibility for the well-being of the college community.
6. Support for RAD Workers’ Student Union: We advocate for the establishment of a student union representing RAD student workers, including Residential Managers and Assistants.
Conclusion:
We firmly believe that implementing these initiatives will significantly strengthen the relationship between the student body and the administration, paving the way for a more transparent, inclusive, and collaborative campus environment. We are confident that through this collaborative effort, we can build an Evergreen State College where student voices are heard, valued, and actively involved in shaping the future of our community.
We eagerly await your thoughtful consideration and response to these proposals. We remain deeply committed to constructive engagement and collaboration for the betterment of our college community.
The Geoduck Student Union Leadership Team:
Gabrielle Cleveland, Vice President of Internal Affairs
Manuel Aybar, Vice President of External Affairs
Juniper Campbell, Director of Legislative Affairs
Jackson Parr, Treasurer
Maranda Martin, Student Life Liaison
Janery Mejia, Communications Liaison
Diego Lopez, Chief Justice
Erin Dixon, Historian and Policy Analyst
Respectfully Submitted on Behalf of the GSU Board,
-M.
Manuel Alberto Aybar | he/él
Vice President of External Affairs, Geoduck Student Union
The Evergreen State College
Olympia, Washington
