Civil debate and exchange play an integral role in education, and college campuses have been a haven for free exchange of ideas, Ortiz says in his Monday video message. He encourages students to speak out on important topics through peaceful and respectful demonstrations or protests. 

However, the president calls the disruption and property damage at a recent CSU Board of Trustees meeting “completely unacceptable.”

“We are better than that, and I trust that our university community will not allow that type of behavior,” Ortiz said. “Let¿s make sure than when our taxpayers and voters take note of these protests, they will recognize that the intent is always to make California a better place.”

The president highlights a few accomplishments in the campus community, including a $3 million grant to improve cybersecurity. Cross country athlete Tiffany Dinh placed 36th overall at the NCAA Division II National Championships and earned All-American honors. Bronco athletes raised $1,700 for “Turkeys for Wishes,” and the money will be donated to the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Earlier this month, the university unveiled a new home for the W.K. Kellogg Arabian Horse Library on the first floor of the University Library. The new facility, which opens to the public in January, recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony and reception. The MediaVision and eLearning staff put together a video about the event.

To read the video message, download a PDF of the transcript.