Presidential Statements: Principles and Practices

One of the responsibilities of the presidency is determining when the university should speak on behalf of the Cal Poly Pomona community. Presidential communications are intended to inform, guide, and support our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners on matters that directly affect our university, our educational mission, or the well-being of our community. 

Cal Poly Pomona is home to a diverse community of individuals with a wide range of identities, perspectives, and experiences. We recognize that events taking place locally, nationally, and around the world may affect members of our community in different ways. While many of these events are deeply meaningful, not every circumstance calls for an official statement from the university. Presidential communications are most effective when they are purposeful, relevant, and closely connected to our mission and values. 

The university communicates on matters that have a direct and significant impact on Cal Poly Pomona. This includes issues related to campus operations, student and employee well-being, public safety, major institutional initiatives, leadership transitions, significant accomplishments, and events that directly affect our educational mission or have a profound impact on members of the Cal Poly Pomona community. Communications may also address developments within the California State University system or higher education when they have a direct impact on our campus. 

As a public university, Cal Poly Pomona does not issue statements on every matter of public interest, endorse political candidates or ballot measures, or take institutional positions on political issues unrelated to our mission. When legislation, court decisions, or public policy directly affect higher education or the university, presidential communications will focus on explaining their impact on our campus, providing relevant information and resources, and supporting our community rather than expressing political viewpoints or endorsements. 

The purpose of this guidance is to provide transparency and consistency in how decisions regarding presidential communications are made, ensuring that the university's voice remains focused on the issues that matter most to the Cal Poly Pomona community.