Today’s Verdict in the Chauvin Trial
Dr. Ron Kraft, Superintendent/President, Jennifer Baker, president, Napa Valley College Board of Trustees, and Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley
George Floyd’s death, and the circumstances surrounding it, affected us all and I hope that today’s verdict in the Derek Chauvin murder trial brings some relief that justice has been served. As your superintendent/president, I want every Black and African American student, staff and faculty to know that I stand by your side today, and every day.
– Dr. Ron Kraft, Superintendent/President, Napa Valley College
Below I share the statement from Jennifer Baker, president, Napa Valley College Board of Trustees:
“While a guilty verdict cannot restore a life, it can hopefully bring a measure of peace and hope to all those in our communities who have been the victims of systemic racism. This trial may be over, but the work we must do on ourselves and our institutions to correct inequities, right injustice, and eradicate racism has only just begun. The NVC Board of Trustees is committed to this work and will continue to support the efforts of College leadership, faculty, staff and students as we all work together to understand each other and work to build an environment where all are respected, valued, heard, and feel they belong.”
Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley issued the following statement on behalf of California Community Colleges:
“Today, some measure of justice has been rendered in the murder of George Floyd. While the jury’s work in this case has concluded, the work ahead of us as a nation and in the California Community Colleges must move forward with the urgency and moral clarity that our students demand and deserve. Over the past year, our system has made extraordinary strides to advance anti-racist practices and promote equity for students of color. This work requires the authentic partnership and support of state and federal leaders, administrators, students, faculty and staff, and it will be guided by justice, peace and respect. Our work is not finished, and history will be our judge.”