Dear Sagehens:
We write to provide an update on the ongoing conversations between members of the Black Student Union and members of the administration concerning anti-Black racism on campus. We also write to share next steps and additional community resources as we move forward into the 2026-27 academic year.
Next Steps
The multiple incidents of anti-Black racism that have occurred this year are antithetical to our community values. While we are unable to comment on specific cases, the message we’ve articulated is clear: Pomona takes these issues very seriously, appreciates the students who have come forward, and acknowledges the harm these incidents have caused to them and to our community. We also recognize that these incidents reflect a broader national climate marked by a troubling decline in care, thoughtfulness and respect for others—dynamics that are unfortunately also present on college campuses, including our own.
When conduct violates College policy, we will pursue disciplinary action as appropriate. There are times, however, when troubling conduct is reported but does not rise to the level of a policy violation. Even then, the College remains engaged with all relevant parties. As an institution of higher education, working through these situations means we commit to dialogue, restorative processes and strengthened educational programming so we can more fully live our values as a supportive and inclusive campus community.
Additional Resources
Since becoming aware of these incidents, we have held meetings with outgoing and incoming members of BSU’s executive board and acknowledged that steps must be taken to remedy the harms cause by racism on our campus. Together, we have worked to identify meaningful and appropriate responses that align with our educational mission, our policies and the law. These conversations have been thoughtful and productive and have helped to clarify both immediate steps and longer-term opportunities to enhance education, resources and support so all community members feel a greater sense of belonging. The Dean of Students will continue meeting monthly with BSU representatives during the next academic year to further connect them with campus resources.
One resource we’ve discussed is the College’s Ombudsperson. Available to all our community members, the Ombudsperson is a confidential resource who is there to listen and counsel on how to raise concerns with the administration or other members of the community. While Ombuds do not represent individuals or groups, and do not play a role in the adjudication of formal processes, they assist with equitable conflict resolution and raise awareness of systemic issues to leadership. In addition—just last month—we launched mandatory Title VI training for all faculty, students and staff. This module covers unlawful discrimination, including harassment, on the basis of race, color and national origin. And we are beginning recruitment efforts for a Title VI Coordinator who can help the College investigate Title VI complaints.
Moving Forward into 2026-27
The Dean’s Office has welcomed student participation across campus to help lead the anti-discrimination programs offered during Orientation and into the fall semester. Our Pomona-Pitzer Director of Athletics has had similarly constructive conversations with team captains. These efforts build on the intercultural competence refreshers provided to student-athletes over Spring Break, which have received positive feedback from participants.
Racism erodes the sense of community that is foundational to the College's mission and core values. Pomona, however, is the sum of all of us, and the pride we take in our college is rooted in how we rise to be stronger and better. We are grateful to the individual students and student groups who have collaborated with us to take steps to address these issues thoughtfully and productively, and we remain committed to fostering a campus environment in which every member of our community feels welcomed and supported. We look forward to continued engagement on this important work over the summer and into the new academic year.
Respectfully,
G. Gabrielle Starr
President, Pomona College
Philip and Gertrude McConnell Professor, Departments of English and Neuroscience
Avis Hinkson
Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students
Brandon Jackson
Associate Dean of Students for Student Development and Leadership