Dear Colleagues:

As you know, there has been discussion among faculty across the University of California promoting an organized walkout on the first day of our fall quarter classes at UC San Diego (24 September). The expressed purpose is to demonstrate disapproval for recent actions by the UC Office of the President including furloughs, budget cuts, and student fee increases.

Across UCSD, there have been a wide range of perspectives expressed on the proposed walkout. Some feel that it will draw public attention to the devastating impact of the recent budget cuts by the State to the University. Others feel that supporting the walkout will place an additional burden on our students who already have seen their fees increase significantly this year.

Given this diversity of opinion, the UCSD Academic Senate leadership has not endorsed any particular position on the proposed walkout. We regard participation in the proposed walkout as a matter of individual conscience. While recognizing the dire position the University is facing, we also believe our faculty are professionals with a strong sense of responsibility in carrying out their instructional obligations.

This is a challenging year for UCSD and the entire UC system. Over the coming months, there will be several opportunities for you to share your creative ideas on the future of UCSD and UC. We strongly encourage your participation in these town halls, department meetings, and task forces.

Sincerely, William S. Hodgkiss, Chair Academic Senate, San Diego Division Frank L. Powell, Vice Chair Academic Senate, San Diego Division