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| Flags fly at half mast outside the Old Stables on in memory of President Ronald Reagan. |
Over the next few days, our nation will be paying last respects to the 40th President of the United States and former California Governor Ronald Reagan. In recognition of President Reagan?s extraordinary public service, Governor Schwarzenegger has declared Friday, June 11, 2004, as a Day of Remembrance. This executive proclamation enables select state agencies to close for the day.
Cal Poly Pomona, along with some CSU campuses, still has important business to complete. The academic year comes to an end this week with finals and the 2004 commencement ceremonies.
In consultation with the Chancellor?s Office and the state executive branch, the university will move forward with finals, as well as the commencement for the College of Science and the College of Letters, Arts & Social Sciences on June 11. There will be no change in any of the schedules and President Reagan will be remembered with a moment of silence before each event.
I have asked the vice presidents and deans to release all non-essential staff from work on Friday, per the Governor?s request. However, those employees required to maintain necessary services ? including finals and commencement ? will be asked to work on Friday. Employees required to work on this day will receive eight hours of informal time off to be taken at a later date.
Although not a perfect solution, this plan will prevent any disruption of two essential experiences for our students. It will also give everyone an opportunity to remember President Reagan and his contributions to California and our country.
While our nation mourns the loss of one of our leaders, we take heart in knowing that commencement represents a bright and hopeful future for our students.
J. Michael Ortiz, Ph.D.
President