February 1, 2023 - Chico State Safety Update

Dear Campus Community,

I have been meeting regularly with my team to evaluate issues of safety and transparency, as well as how the University handled the matter involving David Stachura, Professor of Biology. Today, I can share several updates:

• The professor remains on leave. While on leave, he is prohibited from accessing campus. He will not teach classes or conduct on-campus research. Additionally, he remains restricted from accessing campus IT systems that contain students’ and employees’ personal information. As a reminder, he voluntarily surrendered his guns to University Police in December. 

• The University is in the process of retaining an independent firm to evaluate how this personnel matter was managed. This will be an outside review of the facts to help us improve personnel policies and practices. I will inform you when the firm is secured.

• University Police has been in communication with employees in Holt Hall who have requested department-specific safety presentations and training. These in-depth meetings are currently being scheduled. Additionally, UPD is continuing increased patrols (both uniformed and plain clothes officers) in the area in and around Holt Hall.

• We are reviewing the feedback students and employees provided during two recent safety forums. This includes checking on the viability of making changes to Holt Hall (such as peepholes in doors and mirrors for blind corners). 

I thank the students, faculty, and staff who have stepped up to voice their experiences, anxieties, and ideas. Your safety on this campus remains paramount. Our work on campus safety is ongoing and I will continue to share information as it becomes available.

Sincerely,

Gayle E. Hutchinson
President