Messages from the President
2022-2023 Academic Year
Recognizing Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day
April 20, 2023
Dear Cal State LA Community:
On April 24, Cal State LA will join communities throughout the nation and the world in remembering the 1.5 million people who perished during the Armenian genocide.
Beginning on April 24, 1915, Armenians living in the Ottoman Empire were arrested, raped, beaten, deported, and massacred by Turkish forces. Others were sent on death marches and to concentration camps.
Los Angeles County is home to the largest Armenian population in the United States.
Last year the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors declared April 24 Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day in Los Angeles. In the fall, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1801, which establishes April 24 as Genocide Remembrance Day. The Los Angeles Unified School District also observes Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day on April 24.
Remembering this horrific event is not only important to Armenians and Armenian Americans, but to all people who want to prevent the atrocities of the past from being repeated. The Armenian genocide is a painful and powerful reminder of our responsibility to end hate and the suffering it inflicts.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Possible LAUSD Strike
March 20, 2023
Dear University Community:
Schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District may be forced to close for three days beginning Tuesday, March 21, if a planned strike by district workers occurs.
We recognize the challenges many in our community will face if schools close. Although talks aimed at avoiding the strike have resumed, we urge everyone to begin to plan for the possibility.
In the event of a strike and school closures, we ask faculty to extend leniency to impacted students. Students may miss class or deadlines for assignments because they need to remain home to care for their children.
University employees may need to request unscheduled days off, or request to temporarily adjust schedules. We ask that these requests be considered, given the situation.
Our hope is that the union and LAUSD will reach an agreement before the strike begins.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Participate in the CSU Title IX Assessment Survey
February 1, 2023
Dear Cal State LA Community:
In our continuing efforts to create a safe, welcoming, and caring campus environment, we invite and encourage you to use this link to participate in the CSU’s Title IX Assessment survey, which will remain open through February 15.
As part of a systemwide effort across the California State University’s 23 campuses, Cozen O’Connor Institutional Response Group is assessing how we respond to reports and incidents of discrimination and harassment to help us improve the CSU’s Title IX and Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation (DHR) training, awareness, prevention, intervention, compliance, and support systems.
We need and value your candid input. We understand that topics relating to sexual harassment and assault may be triggering for someone who has experienced these behaviors. Participation is completely voluntary, and confidential responses will go directly and exclusively to Cozen. If you need additional support, or would like to provide feedback related to specific cases, please contact our campus Title IX officer Mariel S. Mulet at 323-343-3040 or [email protected]. You may also send your confidential comments to the dedicated email address established for the assessment: [email protected].
Up-to-date information including next steps can be found on the CSU Title IX Assessment website. Thank you in advance for helping to ensure Cal State LA is a safe and inclusive place, where all of us can thrive.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Community gatherings and support following Tyre Nichols video release
Jan. 27, 2023
Dear Golden Eagle Family:
Many of you may have read or viewed news reports about Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who was fatally beaten in Memphis. Five former police officers have been charged in his brutal death. Later today, the Memphis Police Department plans to release video of the beating—a video that depicts violence Nichols’ family has described as horrific.
Even without yet seeing the video, we recognize the great pain we all experience when seeing harm inflicted on another human being. And we recognize this is yet another in a long list of cases of Black people dying after encounters with police officers. We support those who are hurting because of this brutality.
Next week, gatherings will be held on campus to help our community as we cope with the range of emotions this horrible incident may evoke. We will communicate further as this situation evolves.
We encourage Cal State LA students, faculty, and staff to join in these gatherings and to support each other.
Monday, January 30
Faculty and Staff Community Circle
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
University Library Community Room (B-131)
Check campus email for Zoom option.
Student Community Circle
4:30 to 6 p.m.
University-Student Union Plaza
Tuesday, January 31
Faculty and Staff Community Circle
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
University Library Community Room (B-131)
Check campus email for Zoom option.
Black Student Support Conversation
12 to 2 p.m.
Golden Eagle Ballroom 3
Lunch will be provided.
Counseling Support
In-person drop-in CAPS counseling for students
Monday, Jan. 30; Thursday, Feb. 2; and Friday, Feb. 3
12 to 1 p.m.
Pan African Student Resource Center
University-Student Union, Room 206
Virtual drop-in CAPS counseling for students
Tuesday, Jan. 31 and Wednesday, Feb. 1
2 to 4 p.m.
Check campus email for Zoom ID.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis after hours, you can call the CAPS After-Hours Crisis Hotline at 323-343-3300 24/7 to be connected to a counselor.
Employees may find counseling support through the Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters, by calling 1-800-367-7474 or visiting the LifeMatters website. Our company password is GOEAGLES.
The community events next week are offered by Cal State LA Community Collective Care, a collaboration between the Cross Cultural Centers, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Counseling and Psychological Services, Associated Students, Inc., the University-Student Union, and others on campus.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Healing and helping our community
Jan. 26, 2023
Dear Cal State LA Community:
This has been a painful week. Just days after the mass shooting in Monterey Park, another gunman took the lives of seven people in Half Moon Bay in Northern California. Our hearts are broken for the lives lost, the victims’ loved ones, and for those in our community who have lost family members and friends.
Thank you to the many of you who took part in our candlelight vigil Tuesday evening. Students, faculty, and staff shared words and messages of condolence, comfort, anger, and healing. It was a powerful tribute to the victims of the tragic events of this week. The vigil was organized by Cal State LA Community Collective Care, a collaboration between the Cross Cultural Centers, the Center for Student Involvement, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Counseling and Psychological Services, Associated Students, Inc., the University-Student Union, and others on campus. You can read more about the vigil in our Cal State LA Newsroom.
The Asian Pacific Islander Student Resource Center (APISRC) and the Center for Student Involvement are hosting a Lunar New Year celebration today, Jan. 26, from 12 to 2 p.m. in the University-Student Union Plaza. A moment of silence will be observed in memory of the victims. You can learn more about the APISRC programs and events by following the center on Instagram at @apisrc.ccc.
We have included a list of resources below, including mental health resources compiled by Counseling and Psychological Services, to help you continue to process the tragic events of this week and find ways to support the victims of the Monterey Park shooting, their loved ones, the AAPI community, and each other. You can also access these resources in the MyCalStateLA portal. Cal State LA Community Collective Care has also created a webpage sharing additional resources.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
University-Based Mental Health Resources
For Students
Grief counseling is available this week from noon to 1 p.m. in the Asian Pacific Islander Student Resource Center on the second floor of the University-Student Union in the Cross Cultural Centers, Room 206. Drop-in grief counseling is also available this week at the Student Health Center.
Counseling and Psychological Services is available to assist students who may need to speak with someone. Students can call 323-343-3314 to schedule an appointment.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis after hours, you can call our After-Hours Crisis Hotline at 323-343-3314 to be connected to a counselor.
For Employees
Employees may find counseling assistance through the Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters, by calling 1-800-367-7474 or visiting the LifeMatters website. Our company password is GOEAGLES.
Supporting Monterey Park Victims and the AAPI Community
The AAPI Equity Alliance has created a resource guide to support the Monterey Park victims and community that is being updated.
GoFundMe has created a hub for verified funds supporting Monterey Park victims and their families.
Stop AAPI Hate has created an action page where you can support victims, find resources, contact elected officials, and encourage those who experience or witness acts of hate toward the AAPI community to report the incident at their website.
Community-Based Mental Health Resources
For the AAPI Community
The Chinatown Service Center's behavioral health team offers on-call support at 213-808-1700.
Changing Tides, part of the Little Tokyo Service Center, offers stipends for AAPI young adults (ages 16-25) seeking therapy.
The Asian Mental Health Collective offers an online Asian American Therapist Directory.
Asians for Mental Health offers an online therapist directory.
The Yellow Chair Collective offers multicultural therapy that emphasizes serving the Asian American community.
For everyone
Call or text 988 and speak to a trained counselor if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis. You can also text HOME to 741741 and get connected to a live, trained crisis counselor.
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) offers a 24/7 Help Line at 800-854-7771 for mental health support, resources, and referrals. You can also visit their website for resources in multiple languages and information about grief support groups.
The California Victims Compensation Board reimburses mental health services for victims and their families after all available reimbursement services are used.
Mental health services may be offered through your health plan insurance provider. Contact your provider for details.
Message from the President regarding the Monterey Park mass shooting
January 22, 2023
Dear Golden Eagle Family:
The start of a new year should be a time of celebration and reflection, of joy and hope. Yet, on this Lunar New Year, we find ourselves again mourning with grieving families and again asking, why?
When I learned of the mass shooting in our neighboring city of Monterey Park, my concerns turned immediately to you: our students, faculty, and staff. As I write, the names of the victims have not been released. We don’t know yet if any had ties to our University community. But we know these are our neighbors, and this horrific loss impacts us all. Our hearts ache for the 10 people who were killed and the 10 who were injured in Saturday’s shooting.
We send our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the victims, to the AAPI community, and to any of you who may have suffered the loss of a loved one. The tremendous pain caused by mass shootings is made even worse when there is a personal connection.
In the days ahead, we may all experience a range of emotions: confusion, horror, sadness, anger. Resources are available to anyone who needs help in the aftermath of the mass shooting.
Beginning Monday and every day this week from noon until 1 p.m., students may gather in the CAPS conference room in the Student Health Center for grief counseling. Walk-in grief counseling at other times of the day will also be available.
Employees may find assistance through the Employee Assistance Program, Life Matters, by calling 1-800-367-7474 or visiting the Life Matters website. Our company password is GOEAGLES.
We are creating additional programming this week for students, faculty, and staff to express their emotions and thoughts related to this tragedy.
As a nation, we have experienced many mass shootings, more than we wish to recall, but it does not make the experience any easier. Please check in with your friends and family. If you see someone struggling, please help point them to resources and keep them close. Let’s mark this Lunar New Year with expressions of love and concern for one another and care for those who are hurting.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Student Loan Debt Forgiveness
August 24, 2022
Dear University Community:
Today the Biden administration announced $20,000 in student loan debt forgiveness for those who received Pell grants and earn less than $125,000. This long-awaited decision is great news for our students and alumni.
This historic move could have a profound impact on many in our community. In the fall of 2021, more than 60% of Cal State LA students were eligible for Pell grants. A study by the think tank Third Way found that Cal State LA students take out fewer loans and take far less time to pay them off than other students. With today’s decision, our graduates will spend even less time carrying student loan debt, which will make climbing up the ladder of economic success that much smoother.
The Biden administration also announced other measures:
- $10,000 in student loan debt forgiveness for individuals who did not receive Pell grants and earn less than $125,000
- Individuals with undergraduate loans will be able to cap their student loan payments at 5% of their discretionary monthly income
- The pause on repaying loans has been extended to Dec. 31
In the coming weeks, more information on claiming relief will be available. You can sign up to be notified when this information is available and find answers to frequently asked questions on the Federal Student Aid website. For questions about debt forgiveness, you may also contact your loan servicer.
The administration has also made changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. These changes will make it easier for many to have their payments qualify and to have the remainder of their loans forgiven. I encourage you to visit the White House website to learn more.
I look forward to seeing the many ways student debt forgiveness will benefit our community.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Announcement from President Covino
August 18, 2022
Dear Golden Eagle Family:
Today at Convocation, I announced that I’m retiring at the end of the 2022-2023 academic year, in June 2023. I’m honored to have had the opportunity to serve as president of Cal State LA and to work with you for nearly 10 years.
When I consider all that we’ve accomplished together—and all the storms we’ve weathered along the way—I’m grateful. The incredible work that’s taken place at Cal State LA could not have happened without you—the students, faculty, and staff. Debbie and I thank each of you for all the ways you’ve helped to make our community stronger, more compassionate, and simply better.
My last year as president coincides with Cal State LA’s 75th anniversary celebration. Anniversaries are a time of looking back and looking forward—and sometimes making big moves. Now is a good time for each of us—for me and the University—to boldly step into the next chapter of life. My next chapter will include time for exploring new ventures, visits with my grandchildren, maybe a return to writing, with Debbie, and getting back to my accordion.
In the many months ahead, I’ll still be here. As I said at Convocation, I look forward to getting to know our new faculty and staff, staying focused on student success, well-being, safety, and expanding our commitment to campus diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Debbie and I are thrilled to be part of the transformative energy that makes this University great.
I’m confident that more good things lay ahead in the next chapter of the University’s history. At Commencement each year, I send our students off with a reminder of my deep belief in them. Today I share that same reminder with you: You’re a Golden Eagle and you … will … soar!
With gratitude,
Bill Covino
2021-2022 Academic Year
Message from the President regarding the overturning of Roe v. Wade
June 28, 2022
Dear University Community:
This is a pivotal moment in the history of our nation. In the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, we are witnessing the dismantling of half a century of protection and commitment to women’s reproductive health and to a woman’s right to choose. The court’s ruling is being felt deeply by many in our community.
I want to assure you that our Student Health Center will continue to provide the services it has always offered. We remain committed to providing our students quality health care that addresses their needs, including reproductive health care. This summer, Counseling and Psychological Services will offer free counseling to all students who need assistance because of the court’s decision. To make an appointment, students can visit the CAPS website.
In challenging times, our community comes together. I encourage you to check in on your friends and colleagues who may need support. Please remember that help is available through our Employee Assistance Program.
Let’s continue to take care of each other.
Sincerely,
Bill Covino
President
Message from the President about Juneteenth
June 17, 2022
Dear Cal State LA Community:
The two-day CSU Juneteenth Symposium, held on June 15 and 16 at the Hyatt Regency LAX, featured a deeply engaging and informative array of speakers and presentations, and drew a large and enthusiastic audience. I was pleased to join a group of Cal State LA cabinet members, administrators, faculty, staff, and students for the live event, and those who participated via livestream.
The event activated discussions that will continue through the summer and into the fall. I look forward to hearing ideas and proposals and continuing to support the ongoing work that moves us forward.
The Juneteenth Symposium coincided with a June 14 news article describing the newly established Economic Mobility Index for higher education institutions, and noting that Cal State LA and Cal State Dominguez Hills are the top two institutions in the U.S. for the economic mobility of our students.
Both Cal State LA and Cal State Dominguez Hills primarily serve students of color, and feature administrative leaders, staff, and faculty who represent the diversity of our student population and surrounding communities, and who are devoted to creating a campus and classroom climate that makes us the top universities in the country for student success.
There is much to celebrate, and there is work to do. Juneteenth calls our attention to that work, and to the crucial importance of our continuing improvement of all of the elements that contribute to the deep sense of equity and inclusion that must define Cal State LA.
Happy Juneteenth,
Bill Covino
President
Commencement 2022: Thank you!
May 31, 2022
Dear Staff:
You played an important part in making Commencement 2022 a wonderful celebration for more than 5,500 graduates and their family and friends. Please watch the video message below.
Message from the President about the Uvalde School Shooting
May 25, 2022
Dear University Community:
There are no adequate words to describe the feeling of watching this national tragedy unfold again.
Before we’ve had time to catch our collective breath from the last mass shootings, we learned that an 18-year-old gunman massacred 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas yesterday.
Once again, we are in mourning. Once again, our hearts are broken.
Our experience does not become more bearable with time or repetition. It hurts to witness the grieving parents who dropped their children off at school, never to see them alive again. It hurts to know that teachers, who’d dedicated their lives to educating young minds, were gunned down in the act of doing what they love. It hurts to know that families will gather for holidays and birthdays, and always there will be an empty spot at the dinner table.
Whether it’s Sandy Hook in Newton, Connecticut, Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Tops supermarket in Buffalo, New York, or Geneva Presbyterian Church in Orange County; whether its 10 years ago or yesterday, this does not get easier. The more it happens, the more we must confront the question “why?”
Kids should be able to sit in a classroom with their teachers without fearing that bullets flying from an assault weapon will strike them. This is not too much to ask.
Yet, it’s in the most mundane, everyday acts of life that this hideous violence has interjected itself: an elementary school classroom, a supermarket, a church.
Our flags on campus had been at half-staff for the million lives lost to COVID-19. But there is another plague on our nation that we cannot ignore. We owe it to grieving families in communities across this nation. We owe it to those who have died. And we owe it to our future to remember the loss and grief and to say: No more.
During our Commencement ceremonies today, we observed a moment of silence for the victims of the shooting in Uvalde. Our flags are at half-staff for them. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and our prayers to the survivors and the community. We join with people around the nation in condemning gun violence.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Message from the President
May 18, 2022
Dear Cal State LA Community:
Over the last few weeks, I’ve heard from a number of people in our University community. The incidents at the mayoral debate and the subsequent vote of no-confidence by the Academic Senate have led to difficult questions and for some evoked strong feelings, including hurt and anger.
Within our University community there are varying views and perspectives, yet our faculty and staff are deeply committed to each other, our students, and our community. Extraordinary work happens at Cal State LA every day. I do not dismiss the feelings and concerns some have. I am listening and I welcome inclusive dialogue.
I want you to know that Cal State LA is continuing and expanding our work on diversity, equity, and inclusion through our Community Care Council, the Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (in the Division of Administration and Finance), the Department of Public Safety, and the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Together, we all can continue to address the ways in which our University can become an even more caring community. I’m committed to this work, and I know you are as well. I’m thankful for all you do to make good things happen for our students and for our community.
I look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate our graduating students next week at Commencement. Seeing the exhilaration, pride, and happiness of our graduates and their families brings us all joy.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
A Message About Recent Mass Shootings
May 17, 2022
Dear University Community:
Each time a mass shooting takes place people of goodwill suffer. We suffer knowing the pain, feeling the hurt, witnessing the grief of the victims.
Our hearts ache for them and with them.
This weekend we learned that an 18-year-old man carried out a horrific mass shooting at a market in Buffalo, New York, as part of a plan, rooted in white supremacy, to kill African Americans. Today we mourn with the families of the victims, and we pray for the survivors. Our hearts are with the Black community, and all those who are grieving. We stand against the hate that fueled this shooting.
With growing frequency, we find ourselves in this position: of being horrified by the senseless loss of life and the cause. On Sunday, in Orange County’s Laguna Woods, another gunman carried out a mass shooting at a Taiwanese Presbyterian church. Political hatred was the motivation. Our prayers are with the community.
We can never normalize shootings such as these or the hatred that causes them—even as they seem to happen more often. To normalize them would be to accept this as the human condition. As an institution of higher learning, we guide the development of the human spirit and potential through education.
President Biden referred to the Buffalo shooting as an act of domestic terrorism and said, “a racially motivated hate crime is abhorrent to the very fabric of this nation.” We agree. We join with the president and other people of conscience around the nation in condemning these hateful acts.
William A. Covino
President
Robert Avalos
Vice President, University Advancement
Amy Bippus
Acting Provost
Octavio Villalpando
Vice President for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Student Life
Joyce Williams
Vice President for Administration and CFO
Message from the President regarding HEERF III funding
Feb. 28, 2022
Dear University Community:
We have good news to share about the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III, or HEERF III.
Over the next several days, Cal State LA students will receive funds provided through HEERF III. We are preparing to distribute the $27,098,393.26 allocation earmarked for students. Students can use HEERF III funds for expenses related to the COVID-19 crisis. These include food, housing, course materials, child-care expenses, health care, and other priorities.
I’m pleased to note that federal guidelines have changed and more of our students qualify to receive assistance than with previous HEERF funding, including students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or undocumented status.
Students will receive varying amounts of assistance, based on financial need. Most enrolled students, regardless of their need or financial aid award, will automatically receive a baseline amount of assistance. No application is required to receive the funds. Students who have set up a direct deposit account in GET will receive the funds via direct deposit. Others will receive a check via U.S. mail. Information on HEERF III eligibility and our funding model can be found on the Cal State LA Cares Program website.
HEERF III assistance is available for enrolled international students. To receive a disbursement, enrolled international students may apply for HEERF III funding by completing the online Emergency Grant Application through the Office of the Dean of Students. More information is available on our Cal State LA Cares Program website in the section that details the HEERF III emergency aid amounts.
I’m glad to see that conditions related to the pandemic are improving and to know that our students have this funding to assist them.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Introducing [email protected], our new student well-being platform
Feb. 11, 2022
Dear Golden Eagles:
As a college student, you have a lot to manage this semester, including your physical and mental well-being. That’s why I’m pleased to introduce you to our new well-being platform: [email protected].
[email protected] is a personalized web portal that connects you to an extensive collection of online tools and campus resources to help you stay well and have a successful semester.
Here are just a few of the things that [email protected] can help with:
- Coping with stress and anxiety
- Studying and time management
- Learning about important campus resources like the food pantry, academic and career advising, university events, and getting involved in clubs and organizations
You can create a completely confidential account at you.calstatela.edu with your MyCalStateLA login information and begin exploring the portal today. The platform is made especially for students, and new content is being added to [email protected] on a weekly basis.
This digital platform, offered through our WellBeingU initiative, joins other resources available to you, including the services and programs offered through Counseling and Psychological Services.
I encourage you to explore [email protected] and make the most of this new resource. Take care, stay well, and have a successful spring semester.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Spring Welcome and Return to In-Person Classes
Jan. 26, 2022
Dear Golden Eagle Family:
Welcome to spring semester 2022! As we start this new semester and new year, I’m grateful for your resilience and commitment. You’ve done what it takes to continue moving forward—learning, teaching, supporting one another—in spite of the twists and sharp turns caused by the pandemic.
A remote start to our new semester is not how many of us imagined the semester would begin, and I thank you for your flexibility as we adapted amid the surge of COVID-19 cases earlier this month. I’m encouraged by the recent data that shows COVID-19 case numbers declining in the county, as public health experts and data scientists predicted. With these improving conditions, we look forward to welcoming you back to campus on Feb. 14 to resume in-person classes as planned.
During the remaining two weeks of the remote phase of our semester, please remember that our University offices and services are still open in person and virtually as we continue to meet the needs of our community. As we prepare for the return of in-person classes, I want to share some important information and reminders that may be helpful to you.
Booster Clinics: During February, we’re offering a series of COVID-19 booster shot clinics on campus outside of University Library North near the Main Walkway that are open to students, faculty, and staff by appointment only. The next clinics are Feb. 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. We will also have clinics on Feb. 8-9, 15, and 22. You can make an appointment today using the links on our We Are Healthy LA website. These clinics, offered in partnership with QueensCare Health Centers, are an opportunity for you to comply with the CSU booster requirement.
COVID-19 Websites: Our Health Watch, Return to Campus: Employees, Return to Campus: Students, and Faculty Guidance websites have been updated for the spring semester and offer a wealth of information to help keep you safe, healthy, and informed. I encourage you to continue to check these websites throughout the semester as they are regularly updated.
COVID-19 Testing: Our two free COVID-19 testing kiosks on campus are open to all students, faculty, and staff. You can find the hours, locations, and more information about our free COVID-19 testing on Health Watch.
COVID-19 Hotline: If you still have unanswered questions after reviewing our websites, you can contact the Cal State LA COVID-19 Hotline. Faculty and staff can call 323-343-3385 or email [email protected]. Students can call 323-343-3633 or email [email protected].
We continue to monitor the pandemic and to stay in touch with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. We have been planning and preparing to ensure that we are ready to resume our plans for an in-person semester.
Our fall semester was successful because of our community’s care and concern for each other. Our students, faculty, and staff complied with the vaccination policy, masking protocols, and other practices. Our on-campus case numbers were low last semester, as they have been throughout the pandemic. I encourage those who are eligible and haven’t yet received a booster shot to do so as a way to keep you, your loved ones, and our community safe.
I’m looking forward to seeing you soon as we celebrate Cal State LA’s 75th anniversary together.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Message from the President
Jan. 10, 2022
Dear Faculty and Staff:
With mixed emotions, I am writing to announce that Janet Dial, vice president for University Advancement and executive director of the Cal State LA Foundation, will be leaving the University to become vice president for advancement at the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) in March 2022. The GLAZA mission aligns with Janet’s passionate interest in biodiversity and global conservation.
Janet came to Cal State LA in 2014 and later launched our first-ever comprehensive fundraising campaign. We began the campaign with a seven-figure gift that named the Erika J. Glazer Family Dreamers Resource Center, an accomplishment that is especially dear to Janet’s heart. Under Janet’s tenure, many other University entities were also named, including the Ronald H. Silverman Fine Arts Gallery, the Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing, and most recently the Mary Levin School of the Arts in the College of Arts and Letters.
“WE ARE LA: The Campaign for Cal State LA” has raised more than $98 million and engaged more than 15,000 donors. Thanks to Janet’s leadership, there is a greater culture of philanthropy on campus, and an array of gifts that have transformed the University and enriched the lives of our students and the communities we serve.
Please join me in congratulating Janet on this new opportunity, and thanking her for her dedication and many achievements. We wish her well in her new pursuits.
Sincerely,
Bill Covino
Message from the President about Spring Semester 2022
Jan. 4, 2022
Dear Cal State LA Community:
As a historic COVID-19 surge continues, we’re taking several steps to help make this semester as safe and successful as possible. This message outlines those steps and addresses important questions you may have related to the pandemic.
Our spring semester begins on January 24 and coincides with what public health experts expect to be the peak of the largest surge in COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic.
Out of concern for the health and safety of our community, we’re moving to temporary remote instruction for the first three weeks of the semester. From January 24 through February 11, classes will be held remotely.
By allowing the peak of the surge to pass before beginning in-person instruction, we hope to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our University community and the other hardships it causes. We look forward to returning to in-person instruction and activities. We will keep you informed and provide you with updates in the days and weeks ahead.
Although instruction will take place remotely, our campus facilities will remain open. Student services will be available in person or virtually. We encourage students to continue to handle matters such as financial aid questions in the format that works best for them.
Just before the winter break, we announced a new CSU policy that requires students, faculty, and staff to provide proof of a booster shot. We will provide information about the rollout of the CSU booster shot requirement as soon as it is available.
We strongly encourage anyone who has not received the booster shot to get it now. Taking this important step will help protect you, your loved ones, and others. Booster shots are available through your healthcare provider and at sites throughout Los Angeles County. Our We Are Healthy LA website provides a list of local vaccination sites and resources, such as the Los Angeles County at-home test kits. We encourage you to visit the Health Watch website for updated information.
As you know, changing circumstances may require us to again adjust our plans and procedures. Throughout the pandemic, your health, well-being, and academic success have been our priority. They remain at the center of our plans and decisions.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Spring Semester Update
Dec. 29, 2021
Dear Cal State LA Community:
We recognize that the surge in COVID-19 cases may raise questions in our community about plans for the spring semester. This update is to inform you that we are monitoring the surge and reviewing our plans for the new semester, including our rollout of the new CSU booster shot requirement.
A few local universities have announced plans to begin their spring terms remotely due to the surge. These universities are either on the quarter system or were scheduled to start the spring semester in early January.
By contrast, Cal State LA’s spring semester is scheduled to begin on January 24. Along with other similarly situated local universities, we will continue to monitor the situation and determine the best approach for the spring semester. I met today with the director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, who did not advise that we change our current schedule. We will announce any changes in advance of January 24.
In the meantime, we strongly encourage students, faculty, and staff to get a booster shot as soon as possible when you are eligible. You can receive your booster six months after your second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or two months after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Last week, the CSU announced a new policy requiring booster shots of students, faculty, and staff in spring 2022. More information about uploading proof of booster shots will be shared in January.
Please do not wait until the start of the spring semester to get the booster shot. Vaccines remain our most powerful means of combating the virus and variants.
Booster shots are available through your local healthcare provider and at sites throughout Los Angeles County, including locations in neighborhoods surrounding the University. You can find information about these local vaccination opportunities on our We Are Healthy LA website.
We hope this break provides you with an opportunity to rejuvenate as we all prepare for the year ahead.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Celebrate our national champion men’s soccer team on Wednesday
Dec. 14, 2021
Dear Golden Eagle Family:
Please join us as we celebrate the Cal State LA men’s soccer team and our historic national championship!
We’ll congratulate and welcome the team home on Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 11:30 a.m. near the steps of the University Bookstore and the Golden Eagle statue.
The Golden Eagles scored the program’s first ever NCAA Division II National Championship in a 1-0 victory over the University of Charleston on Dec. 11 in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
With their hard work, grit, and determination, our team showed the nation what it means to be a Cal State LA Golden Eagle.
We’re proud of our players, Coach Chris Chamides and his coaching staff, Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Daryl Gross, the staff of our Department of Athletics, and everyone who helped make this victory possible. Our national championship is the eighth for any sport in Cal State LA’s history and our first since 1981.
We look forward to seeing our champions and celebrating their historic achievement at Wednesday’s event. I hope to see you there.
In the meantime, you can read more about the win in the Cal State LA Newsroom.
Sincerely,
Bill Covino
President
Finals Fest
Dec. 13, 2021
Dear Students:
If you’re on campus today, Monday, Dec. 13, between noon and 2 p.m., stop by the University-Student Union Lobby and take part in Finals Fest. There will be games, therapy pets, and giveaways to give you a break from studying and help you make it through finals.
And be sure to check out our webpage that lists finals week hours for the library, computer labs, and other places on campus. This information will help you prepare for the week. You may also want to watch our WellBeingU videos, which offer student-tested tips on dealing with stress.
You’ve worked hard this semester, and we wish you success and well-being during finals week.
Sincerely,
Bill Covino
President
Aaron Burgess
Dean of Students
Message from the President
Nov. 18, 2022
Dear Cal State LA Family:
I want to take this moment to express my gratitude to you for all the ways you’ve contributed to Cal State LA this semester. I’m thankful to be a part of a caring and compassionate community of faculty and staff who give their best to our students, and students who work hard to achieve their dreams.
During this holiday season, I encourage you to take precautions that will help keep you, your loved ones, and our community safe and well.
- In the state of California, COVID-19 vaccine booster shots are now widely available and recommended for all adults. You can make an appointment with your healthcare provider to get a booster shot, or find information about other locations offering booster shots from the L.A. County Department of Public Health.
- If you have not yet received the COVID-19 vaccine, please get vaccinated. The vaccine is still the best tool we have against the virus. You can find information about where to get vaccinated from the L.A. County Department of Public Health.
- The influenza vaccine is also widely available. Please consider getting a flu shot. The L.A. County Department of Public Health also provides flu shot information.
Last year the holiday season was followed by a nationwide surge in COVID-19 cases. Together, we can avoid a resurgence. Please encourage your friends and loved ones to get fully vaccinated against COVID, if they have not already.
I hope this holiday season brings you rest, joy, and good times with your loved ones.
Sincerely,
Bill
Join our WellBeingU Speaker Series webinar tomorrow, Oct. 7
Oct. 6, 2022
Dear Cal State LA Community:
I hope you’ll attend our WellBeingU speaker series event on stress and resiliency scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, Oct. 7 at noon. WellBeingU is our initiative to help support your inner and physical well-being by providing the University community with vital behavioral health services, resources, and basic needs.
Our guest speaker is Dr. Eva Selhub, an internationally recognized resiliency expert and coach. Dr. Selhub takes a holistic approach to providing the tools we need to reduce stress and cultivate resilience.
We all know life can be tough. We’re still facing the extraordinary challenges that come with living in a pandemic, along with the everyday stressors of school, work, family, and relationships. In spite of these challenges, our students, faculty, and staff are continuing to persevere while supporting one another.
It’s good to take a moment to explore healthy ways to cope. If you have not registered, please sign up for the webinar online.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Message from the President regarding HEERF III disbursements
Oct. 5, 2021
Dear University Community:
We have good news to share about the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund III, or HEERF III.
Over the next several days, Cal State LA students will receive funds provided through HEERF III. We are preparing to distribute the $54,097,891 allocation earmarked for students. Students can use HEERF III funds for expenses related to the COVID-19 crisis. These include food, housing, course materials, child-care expenses, health care, and other priorities.
I’m pleased to note that federal guidelines have changed and more of our students qualify to receive assistance than with previous HEERF funding, including students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or undocumented status.
Students will receive varying amounts of assistance, based on financial need. Most enrolled students, regardless of their need or financial aid award, will receive a baseline amount of assistance. No application is required to receive the funds. Students who have set up a direct deposit account in GET will receive the funds via direct deposit. Others will receive a check via U.S. mail. Information on HEERF III eligibility and our funding model can be found on the Cal State LA Cares Program website.
Some assistance is available for enrolled international students. To receive a disbursement, enrolled international students may apply for HEERF III emergency aid funding by completing the online HEERF III Emergency Grant Application through the Office of the Dean of Students.
I’m hopeful that conditions will continue to improve and that this assistance will help our students. Let’s continue to take care of ourselves and of each other.
Sincerely,
William A. Covino
President
Message from the President
Sept. 10, 2021
Dear Faculty and Staff:
As we wrap up the third week of the fall semester, I want to share a few thoughts about our return to campus.
It’s exhilarating to feel the campus buzzing with excitement again. Seeing students on the walkway headed to classes or the food court is a reminder of how far we’ve come, how different this semester is from the last two. It’s been good to welcome home students, faculty, and staff, and I’m grateful that we are together again.
Being on campus now is different from our pre-pandemic life together. It is familiar and yet new. There are COVID-19 testing kiosks on campus, a face mask requirement, a vaccination requirement, and other protocols. There is a new responsibility that comes with being together and a new set of expectations.
Thank you to everyone who has complied with the CSU vaccination requirement, and those who plan to comply by the deadline. Last week students learned that a registration hold will be placed on the accounts of those who have not uploaded proof of vaccination or received an exemption.
This hold and other requirements are in place to help us keep our community safe. We all want this semester to be the very best that it can be. We will continue to listen to you and to provide the needed resources, strategies, and protocols. When new situations arise, we will continue to work together to resolve them.
I’m proud of the way our community takes care of each other. Let’s continue moving forward together.
Sincerely,
Bill
