On the Matter of Emily Acosta Lewis
Whereas Dr. Emily Acosta Lewis, Professor of Communication and Media
Studies, served as Chair of the Academic Senate of Sonoma State University
during the tumultuous academic year 2024-25; and
Whereas Dr. Acosta Lewis fostered a collaborative environment where all
voices were welcomed, respected, and considered in the decision-making
process; and
Whereas, in a time of profound institutional change, uncertainty, and division
on our campus, her principled leadership provided a guiding light through
moments of conflict and upheaval with professionalism, empathy, and grace;
and
Whereas she skillfully facilitated Faculty Senate meetings, consistently
maintaining focus, promoting inclusive dialogue, and ensuring that meetings
ended on time (wink, wink); and
Whereas she represented faculty perspectives with insight, compassion, and
credibility by cultivating diverse and genuine relationships across campus; and
Whereas her dedication, professionalism, and collegial spirit strengthened the
work of the Faculty Senate and exemplified the best ideals of shared
governance; and
Whereas she is a model of the kind of endurance and resilience that comes
not only from experience and wisdom, but also from her dedication to protein
shakes, creatine, and the gainz we all hope to see in faculty governance;
Therefore, be it resolved that the Faculty Senate express its sincere
appreciation to Dr. Emily Acosta Lewis for her outstanding service as Chair in
troubled times and for her lasting contributions to faculty governance and
campus community.