remote operations extended 5.15.24

May 15, 2024

Message from the President | Update for Auraria Campus Operations

May 15, 2024

Dear CCD Community,

In these past few weeks, you exemplified our shared values, and for that, I extend my deepest gratitude.

The decision to transition to remote operations was not made lightly. It stemmed from a genuine concern for the safety and well-being of every member of our community. With a lack of inter-institutional and inter-agency coordination and the magnitude of a national disruption that included the Auraria Campus, it was a necessary step to prioritize your health and security.

While the encampment continues and the actions of the inhabitants are escalating, I recognize that there are critical functions within our college that must return to some on-campus operations, which have been significantly impacted during the past three weeks. Beginning Thursday, May 16, 2024, select personnel may return to the Auraria Campus with their Executive’s approval. Executive Council has been instructed to send the names of those approved to return to campus to Human Resources, who will then notify the Auraria Campus Police Department (ACPD). Non-essential on-campus activity will not be approved.

I understand that emotions may still run high. Your safety and mental well-being remain paramount, which is why we have partnered with CSEAP’s team to offer support at no charge to you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to them should you require assistance during this time. I have said this before: please always maintain awareness of your surroundings, particularly as a member of an urban campus community.

If you are experiencing an emergency, contact ACPD immediately. I urge you to save their contact information. In an emergency, every second counts. Calling 911 from a non-campus phone will route to the Denver Police Department and then transfer to ACPD, adding a significant delay in law enforcement response.

Auraria Campus Police Department:

Emergency Dispatch: 303-556-5000
Text-a-Tip: 720-593-8477
Information Hotline: 1-877-556-3637

For your convenience, here are the contact details for CSEAP’s support services:

24/7 crisis support at 303-866-4314.
Urgent 30-minute triage appointments are available daily. Call 303-866-4314.
Regularly scheduled appointments are available by calling 303-866-4314 or visiting https://cseap.colorado.gov/contact-us.

As we move forward, let us continue to prioritize understanding, cooperation, and support for one another and our students. Together, we will emerge stronger than ever before.

Thank you for your resilience and commitment to the CCD community.

Sincerely,

Dr. Marielena DeSanctis
President
Community College of Denver