Students show concern and support amid allegations

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Interim President Mike Lee did not respond when the STAR reached out for an interview. Several students, who wished to remain anonymous, have expressed their concerns and disappointment in light of the situation.

One third year business student said, “I love this campus. I love all the professors I’ve had and friends I’ve made. But with the scandal from last year and another one right now, it really has me wondering if I made the right decision coming here.”

Another first year communication student expressed that Sonoma State was receiving attention within the last year, but for all the unfortunate reasons. “All I can say is ‘Yikes!’ Someone needs to be held accountable and not give some lame, half-assed apology.”

This comes a little over a year since news broke of sexual harassment and retaliation complaints regarding then SSU President Judy Sakaki and her husband, Patrick McCallum.

The California State University system and Sakaki were accused of paying out $600,000 to former provost Lisa Vollendorf after Sakaki reportedly retaliated against Vollendorf by making defamatory statements.

Lee assumed leadership of Sonoma State last August of 2022 after the departure of former president Dr. Judy K. Sakaki, who resigned from the presidency on July 31, 2022.

Lee’s interim appointment will span for the remainder of the 2022-23 academic year. CSU Trustees will soon begin a national search for a regularly appointed president to lead the campus.