Working Together For Safety

Thursday, February 16, 2023, 11:15am

TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police

The Sonoma State University Police Department is saddened by the recent spate of mass shootings we’ve seen nationwide, most recently at Michigan State University and El Paso, and closer to home in Half Moon Bay and Monterey Park. Our thoughts remain with the victims, and our deepest condolences go out to their families and friends.  

The safety of our campus and its learning and work environment is a responsibility we all share. Together we strive to avert such tragedies here at Sonoma State.

If you ever feel you or others are in immediate danger, or you see or hear suspicious activity or hear someone talking about harming themselves or others, even if you’re unsure if they’re serious, immediately call or text the Sonoma State University Police Department at 911.  You may also call (707) 664-4444. Emergency Blue Lights are also available to use around various areas of the campus. 

In an emergency or critical situation, we may communicate with you utilizing a variety of methods, especially through SSUAlert, which sends voice, text, and email communications to an individual’s cell phone and email addresses that have been registered with the University. The campus website and social media, as well as radio, print, and television news sources may also be used to provide and update information.

In addition, all Seawolves can download the Rave Guardian Mobile Safety application, which provides emergency procedures for various types of emergencies, among its other great safety features. 

Please visit the Emergency Notifications site to find information on our Emergency Notification System. It is imperative that you make sure that your contact information is updated and current. 

Please remember, in an emergency, you must be prepared to work with others to take actions necessary to protect, not only yourself, but also others around you until police officers or emergency personnel arrive. As such, please review the Emergency Procedures Guide for information about responding. The Guide explains actions that you can take during certain emergencies.

Sonoma State University has resources available to anyone impacted by the recent shootings, directly or indirectly. 

Support Resources: Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at 707-664-2153. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at 1-800-367-7474.