Occupied buildings cleared at California State Polytechnic University

 

California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt (Cal Poly Humboldt) has announced that it will hold a modified in-person commencement ceremony on May 11, following the clearing of two occupied buildings and the lifting of a campus lockdown. The university had been under a shelter-in-place advisory since earlier in the week due to "criminal activity on campus."

On Tuesday, law enforcement officers regained control of Siemens Hall and Nelson Hall East, arresting 31 individuals in the process. The university subsequently lifted the shelter-in-place order, but maintained a "hard closure of campus" until May 10. This means that access to campus is restricted, and only authorized employees are permitted to enter or be on campus, with supervisors contacting those who are cleared to do so.

The modified commencement ceremony will take place as scheduled on May 11, with further details to be announced later in the week. This decision marks a significant development in the university's efforts to restore normal operations following the occupation and lockdown.

The occupation and subsequent lockdown had disrupted campus life, with students and faculty expressing concerns about safety and academic continuity. The university's decision to hold a modified commencement ceremony is seen as a positive step towards returning to normalcy, while also acknowledging the need for continued vigilance and caution.

Cal Poly Humboldt has faced challenges in recent weeks, with student protests and occupations calling for divestment from companies supporting Israel and the war in Gaza. The university has sought to balance student free speech with maintaining campus safety and order, a delicate task that has required coordination with law enforcement and other stakeholders.

As the university moves forward, it remains committed to supporting its students and community, while also upholding its academic mission and values. The modified commencement ceremony will be an important milestone in this process, celebrating the achievements of graduating students while also acknowledging the challenges and complexities of the current moment.