April 20, 2021

Dear CVPA Colleagues, Students and Families, and Alumni:

I am heartened by the guilty verdict in the murder trial of Derek Chauvin. Justice has been served in this case, and the police officer who swore an oath to protect has been held accountable for the senseless death of George Floyd while in his custody.

At CPVA we have been taking action to dismantle the legacy of white supremacy in higher education, building a College that is steeped in a sense of justice and equity through our policies and our practices; that protects the dignity, individuality, and safety of our students at every turn; and that is actively anti-racist in our decision-making. We are committed to overturning the dominant paradigm and building a new system founded on equality and respect for all.

A guilty verdict in this case is a positive step, but the work that lies ahead to address the systemic racism in our culture has just begun.

Sincerely,

bruce d. mcclung, Dean

College of Visual and Performing Arts