Nov. 4, 2016
Members of the Sonoma State Campus Community,
I write today with a heavy heart. On Nov. 2, two of our staff members discovered a body in a heavily wooded area near parking lot M on the edge of campus. We never know exactly what each of our work days will be like, but I am certain that our colleagues never expected that. My appreciation to them for their diligence and handling of a difficult situation.
Last night, we learned from the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office that Kirk Kimberly, an 18-year-old Cotati resident, is the young man that was discovered on the perimeter of the campus. He was not a student at Sonoma State. The homicide investigation into the circumstances of Kirk’s death is ongoing. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Kimberly family.
Anytime that a tragedy such as this occurs so near to us, it can affect us in a variety of ways. I want you to know that your safety and the well-being of our campus community is important to me and our leadership team. Our Police and Safety Services personnel are continuing to work closely with the Sheriff’s Department investigators. Updates to the investigation are available through the Sonoma County Sheriff's Facebook page. We are taking this matter very seriously and are maintaining a dedicated, visible police presence on campus.
As a student, if you feel the need to reach out to a professional, please contact Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at 664-2153 for drop-in times or to schedule an appointment. For staff and faculty, counseling support is available through our Employee Assistance Program, Empathia, at (800) 367-7474. Also, the Safety Escort Program is available for students, faculty, and staff who would like to be accompanied as they walk to or from locations on campus. Please call 664-4444 to utilize this service.
In times such as these, we need to take the time to talk and listen to each other with open hearts. Let us find strength in our community and support each other as we move forward. Thank you for being a caring member of the Sonoma State family.
Warmly,
Judy K. Sakaki
President