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.

Approved by acclamation 5/15/2025