October 9, 2017 – Update on Wildfires

To: Campus Community

From: President Gayle E. Hutchinson

You may have heard by now that massive wildfires are burning out of control in Napa and Sonoma counties early this morning, destroying hundreds of homes and businesses, forcing the evacuation of thousands of people and shutting down major roadways as firefighters sought to halt the advance of the wind-driven infernos.

Our sister campus, Sonoma State University, is currently closed and under voluntary evacuation. They are monitoring the fire closely and have activated a voluntary evacuation due to poor air quality.

Given the rapidly changing nature of this situation, we are reaching out to our colleagues at Sonoma State to offer support however possible, particularly if the campus remains closed this week.

Please keep our friends and colleagues in your thoughts as they continue dealing with this incredibly difficult and heart-breaking situation.

We are also closely monitoring the fires in the Oroville area, where several Chico State employees live.

Additionally, I recognize that many of our students and employees may have family and friends affected by the fires and wish to extend my deepest sympathies and support.

This is a rapidly evolving situation and I will continue to share information as it becomes available, especially regarding ways our campus community can help meet the needs of our Northern California neighbors.