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Our son has taken and audited classes from Drs. Cominsky and Targett in the SSU Physics and Astronomy Department from age 9 to 17. He also worked for several years with Dr. Jernigan on the CubeSat project and presented at scientific conferences as the result of this mentorship. We cannot imagine any other university faculty taking the time to nurture the growth and development of young people as much as SSU has done for our son.

Because of the Faculty in the SSU Physics and Astronomy department, our son has gained a deeper understanding of the world around him and how science can have a positive impact on society. Working with amazing professors inside and outside the classroom is a large part of the reason he was accepted to his top-two university choices to study physics and engineering for fall 2025: SSU and Stanford. Unfortunately, closing the SSU Physics major makes it impossible for him to continue his studies at SSU. We strongly urge the university to keep offering the physics, astrophysics, and physical science degrees and keep the gem that is the Department of Physics and Astronomy available to students at SSU.

SSU Physics and Astronomy dept is a pioneer in gravitational-wave astrophysics research, teaching, and interdisciplinary intersection with the arts. SSU has provided some of the most iconic images in this emerging field, in addition to serving as an incubator for top leaders in the field. I would be hard-pressed to think of a more influential program at a comparable institution.

When I toured universities as a high school student in 1987, I experienced something special at Sonoma State University. Dr. Saeid Rahimi took two hours to walk me around and ask me about my interests. His personal touch convinced me that SSU was the right choice, even over schools like Stanford or UC Berkeley. The accessibility of SSU's Physics faculty and staff meant I received a superb education at a fraction of the cost of more presitigous schools.

Today, as the head of Sonoma Clean Power, I see every day how SSU graduates power our community. I employ 29 of them, and their skills help keep our local economy strong. Even though the California State University system faces tough budget challenges, closing the Physics Department at SSU would be a false savings. Cutting this program would sever an essential pipeline of talent needed to support our local industries and future growth.

I urge the CSU system to reconsider this decision. Maintaining a robust Physics Department at SSU is not just an investment in education—it is an investment in the future of our community.

My BS degree in physics at SSU was an important experience in my life. It saddens me to learn that the university would consider terminating such a high quality program to address short-term enrollment and budgetary issues.

When I went to graduate school at UC Davis (MS, Mech E) I noticed that undergraduates almost never interacted directly with their professors. It felt like they might as well be learning engineering from Youtube. At SSU, I got to spend plenty of time discussing physics with my professors - sticking around after class, running into them in the halls, dropping into their offices, or grabbing a bite at Lobos. I don't think I know anyone who had such a strong personal relationship with any of their professors in college as I had with most of mine.

It's a special program. Please keep SSU physics alive through this turbulent moment so future generations of students can get to know and learn from these excellent professors the way I did.

The Sonoma State University Physics & Astronomy department provided me everything I needed to grow as a science student. My passion for physics was kindled and every single teacher and faculty member has gone above and beyond helping support and educate me. The professors here have a real love for the subject, which shines in the courses, and show real care for their students which is reflected in the success and happiness of their students. I truly cannot think of anything more the department could do to deserve the funding they need.

Save Sonoma Physics!

Studying in the physics and astronomy department at SSU was a powerful experience of learning during my undergrad years. I am heart-broken by the plans to kill this department! At a time where scientific training needs continue to skyrocket in our highly technological society, this seems like the worst time to remove such an important department. I hope that the SSU administration can look more deeply into understanding the importance of this amazing department and continue to keep it going into the future!

SSU has been a highly influential and deeply appreciated member of the international LIGO Scientific Collaboration- over 2000 physicists, astrophysicists and engineers studying gravitational waves from the most energetic processes in the universe. The SSU group provides a uniquely valuable perspective, borne from extensive experience, and especially from their passion for education and public outreach in astronomy. We very much need their expertise, experience, and voices right now. Many thanks to SSU Physics for all that they have done and will continue to do!

During my first few years at SSU I was completely lost academically. The major I had originally chosen was a part of a large department where l felt like I was simply a number in a sea of students. My professors were strict and unapproachable; moreover, trying to schedule office hours with them was like playing the lottery, hoping I’d be lucky enough to find one hour of availability.

Thankfully, the general education requirements forced me to take different classes and the day I first sat in my intro to physics course, completely changed my academic journey. The professor came in with such joy and showcased a passion for teaching which made me want to learn. The material captivated my attention and I finally felt like I found where I belonged. I instantly decided to switch my major.

From that moment on my academic journey at SSU became joyful and positive. At that time, the physics department was small, but mighty. I got to know all the other students majoring in physics and my professors actually knew my name! In the breaks between our classes, physics students and teachers would share snacks in the study room upstairs in Darwin and we’d help each other with our homework and study together for upcoming tests.

The physics department truly felt like a community, a home away from home. I will forever be grateful to My mentor, Dr. Severson as he’d continuously check in with me and make sure I was taking then right courses and was on track to graduate. Truth be told, he gave me more academic guidance than I had ever received from the academic counselors in Salazar Hall.

The physics department truly looked out for their students. They offered us more than just a degree. They brought us stability, positive student-teacher relationships and they fostered a positive educational experience. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to graduate from SSU as Physics Major and hope my high school students have that opportunity in their future as well.

Angelica Sanchez
Teacher
Fort Bragg High School

I was an adult reentry student, graduating SSU Physics in 2009.

Before reentering, I already had a long career in embedded software
development. After graduating, I resumed that career, but in several
instances drew directly from my SSU Physics experience.

Upon resuming employment, I was asked to assess a journal paper describing
a specific physical design for a high speed circuit element. My SSU Physics
E&M coursework attuned me sufficiently to recognize that the technique
held some promise, but a number was offered whose order of magnitude
seemed implausible. I calculated an integral, and verified that though
the mantissa was correct, the published units were off by several orders
of magnitude. The paper's claims were valid, but it suffered an editorial
error.

Later, my company observed certain types of failures in telecom equipment.
When I examined several of these reports, I noted that they appeared to
be more frequent at sites at higher altitude. Recalling a specific SSU
Physics homework problem where one must invoke Special Relativity (time
dilation) to explain the observed decay time of muons from upper atmosphere
particle interactions, it became clear that we were experiencing Single Event Upset
("cosmic ray" disruptions in semiconductor memories). We were then able
to mitigate these effects by refreshing the affected special memory, from
duplicate representations in error-corrected memory. In the course of
researching this, I encountered a suspicious looking journal paper from
an obscure institution. Further searching revealed that most of this
paper was plagiarized from a presentation by a US national laboratory.
I reported this to the original corresponding author, who thanked me and
noted the incident as "egregious".

SSU Physics coursework and reinforcement in standards of research
and publication, were essential in recognizing and resolving these situations.

My reentry to university was directly assisted by the late Dr. Bryant
Hichwa after taking introductory calculus track physics through Open
University. I later had his course on Optics, which was intensive,
at times difficult, but highly rewarding. Dr. Kevin McLin's course in
Introduction to Modern Physics was memorable. Dr. Hongtao Shi's course
in Statistical Physics was a tough but essential challenge for me.
Dr. Jeremy Qualls' courses on Analytical Mechanics and foundations of
Quantum Mechanics were memorable.

I was pleased to be able to attend and to support the What Physicists
Do public lecture series, and to observe the engagement of students from
other disciplines, and of members of the general public, with prominent
and diverse speakers.

The Physics major carried a senior "capstone" research obligation.
Facilities at SSU, and especially the readily accessible expertise
of faculty in advising for this, can give extraordinary opportunities
to investigate evolving topics.

The strongest argument that I can offer in support of SSU Physics, however,
was what I saw among students of traditional age. Other disciplines require
calculus-based physics, with Physical Chemistry being exceptionally
demanding. What I saw was that the physics students who stepped up with
tutorial assistance to earlier students in physics, and especially to
students in other disciplines that require physics, tended to be the
stronger students. "See one, do one, teach one." I could see their skills
in problem solving and in appropriate pedagogy, develop over the succession
of semesters.

Without a major-sequence physics program, students from other disciplines
will be relying more eroded and pressured faculty, and not benefiting
from the specific interaction from more advanced peer students. There
are fewer barriers to asking questions, and to receiving just enough guidance
from incorrect solutions.

CSU has a traditional mission in educating teachers for primary and secondary
education. Group and tutorial problem solving refines skills in subject matter,
in interpersonal confidence, and in effective pedagogy.

As noted in other testimonials here, SSU's facilities and remarkably accessible
and committed faculty, have brought students of diverse personalities and
backgrounds to complete their studies with strong subject knowledge, and
with the confidence that can develop from patient guidance and learned
advice from faculty, and from working closely with other students.

I am a staff scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and had the pleasure of visiting the Sonoma State in 2024 to deliver a guest lecture for the Physics department. I also work with prof. Miller on hosting Sonoma students as interns at LBNL. I was very impressed with the insightful questions of the students, both during our lunch together and during my talk. For the students I met, an education in physics would have been out of reach if they could not pursue it locally. They expressed their strong desire to give back to their own community, e.g. as the next generation of physics high school teachers.

In the long term, a whole community of future high school and college students could be shut out from a high quality eduction in physics if this department were to shut down. I strongly urge you to reconsider.

I am an Alumni of SSU. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Physics with an Astronomy Minor. I matriculated to SSU as a transfer student from College of Marin, in the fall of 2008 with the intention of getting my teaching credential. As an older student, with a family and a full time job, I was taking a night time Astronomy course to fulfill my lab science requirement. One evening after class, I was talking with Dr. Severson about my desire to teach. I learned that Science and Math teachers were in high demand. I wasn't convinced I could do Physics, but I needed an Advisor so agreed to meet and give it a try. With the support of Dr. Severson, Dr. Spear, Dr. Cominsky, and many others on the Physics/Astronomy Faculty I graduated Cum Laude with Distinction in May of 2011. The opportunities to be part of the larger SSU Physics & Astronomy Community were some of the best times - working at the E/PO, assisting with the "What Physicists Do" lecture series, Public Viewing Nights, SPS to name a few. Opportunities and experiences I would not otherwise have had, and that other students deserve to be part of.

The point of the above synopsis is to illustrate the dedication, passion and inclusiveness of the Staff and Faculty in the Physics Department. They all saw something in me I did not see in myself. And that is not only true for me. The result of my time spent within the SSU PA Department, changed my life in a profound way. I gained confidence, knowledge and saw first hand how believing in someone's ability can help manifest that ability. Since that time I have been teaching 8th grade science. I have been able to share the enthusiasm and passion of my professors with my students. Many of whom have gone on to major in Physics or another Science. Some are studying to be engineers, doctors, or work in the tech industry. Even more importantly, they are becoming excited about their understanding of how science is found in their every day lives. I could not do this if not for my experiences with the mentors I had while involved with the Physics and Astronomy Department.

However, I am shocked and saddened by the idea that SSU will no longer offer degree programs in Physics and Astronomy. Where is the Diversity of programs at SSU if a foundational science based program is lost? How will fact-based and science-based critical thinking be developed in students if only subjective, liberal arts programs remain?

What of Equity for Women in Science if there are no such degree programs offered in schools in their community?

Where will the students interested in Physics and Astronomy degrees go if their local, and affordable, University does not offer these programs?

Can the campus of SSU claim to be Inclusive of all students if it lacks a balance of science forward programs?

Please pause to consider my experiences and questions before the decision is made to defund the "Most Fundamental of Sciences" (physics) and the "Gateway to Science" (astronomy) is finalized.

You hold the future of undiscovered great minds in your hands.

I earned my BS in physics with a minor in astronomy from Sonoma State in 2019. The physics department at SSU provided me with the opportunity to study physics at a university that was not far from home as I am a first-generation Latino college student so it was very important for me to reduce the financial strain by studying close to home while at the same time continuing my higher education. Despite the smaller size of the Physics and Astronomy Department at SSU, it was able to provided us the opportunity to truly engage with our professors in smaller classroom settings and made it very easy to reach out and interact with our professors regarding any issues or questions we had.
After graduating from SSU I was able to work on campus as a part of the EdEon group and as a lab instructor for a lower division physics lab for a semester before I was off to get my MS in Aerospace Engineering at UCLA. I have now been working at the Space Sciences Lab at UC Berkeley as a Spacecraft Controller for the last two years helping to operate some missions including NuStar and THEMIS, and have been preparing for future missions including Carruthers and ESCAPADE.
I am truly grateful for the opportunities that were provided by the Physics and Astronomy department and I urge the university to not make cuts to this department, otherwise it will affect future generations by not providing them with the opportunities I was fortunate enough to experience during my time at SSU.
As you read through the other testimonials written by other graduates it becomes very clear the wide range of success that has come out of the Physics Department and the positive impact is has had on so many people and the potential is has for future graduates.

I earned a BS in Physics from SSU in 2008 and I cannot stress enough the impact this program has had on my life and career. I discovered my joy for optics and the science of light and have since pursued this to obtain my PhD in Optics and a career as an optical engineer. I have no doubt every other student who has passed through the SSU Physics program has likewise greatly benefited.

In many colleges, Physics programs are notoriously competitive and saturated with students. The program at Sonoma State is refreshingly the opposite. The smaller program is considerably more than just a mill churning out paper degrees. It fosters a community of faculty and students passionate about science and physics, emphasizes building critical skills and knowledge for, and encourages cooperation and growth. An excellent example of this is the long-standing weekly "What Physicists Do" colloquium, where working physicists are "curated" and invited to present on their work and research. The colloquium serves to bring several departments together and provides knowledge and inspiration to all in attendance. The physics program also highlights valuable hands-on experience with several required lab courses utilizing state-of-the art equipment and required research guided by a faculty member.

Walking onto the SSU campus in 2004, I was an introverted student - likely to be washed out in the sea of students in a larger program. Looking back, I can see how the dedicated and impassioned faculty pushed to get to know me, to find my strengths and weaknesses, and work with me to develop and open up. This was further assisted by the bonds with my peers both in and outside the classroom. Upon graduation, I was more vocal and social, I had several semesters of valuable hands-on lab work from courses and research that are required for the degree, and I had letters of recommendation from faculty who actually knew me that would be invaluable in my applications for jobs and graduate school.

I strongly support any effort to keep the Sonoma State Physics program in existence for perpetuity. The devotion of the faculty and structure of the program should serve as a model to others. The loss of the program would be a loss for physics and science, the community, future students, and I believe would ultimately be detrimental to Sonoma State University as a whole. I encourage the CSU system to explore any options to keep SSU Physics at SSU.

As so many others have stated, Physics and Astronomy are fundamental disciplines. The programs and
faculty at SSU are outstanding.

My degree in Physics from SSU laid the foundation for an interesting and rewarding career as an engineer in the tech industry. I am forever grateful to have had the opportunity to major in Physics at SSU.

Please preserve the opportunity and quality these departments offer, so that current/future students, and our society/science/world can benefit.

I like to say that physicists are like the special forces of the scientific community; you can place us into any technical environment, and we will thrive (I mean, just look at our "What Physicists Do" seminar!!!).

The education I received from SSU's Physics & Astronomy Department has proved itself foundational to the success I have enjoyed in life. I received my Ph.D. in physics in July of 2023, and am now a Technical Lead on one of our nation's most critical engineering efforts.

SSU's Physics Department nurtured my ability to think critically and solve problems through the practical application of theory. In fact, the highly personal and hands-on approach to learning I experienced has proved itself valuable beyond compare! I will forever be grateful for my experience at SSU, and I thank the wonderful faculty for their passionate approach to teaching our future doctors, engineers, business owners, and leaders.

Physics = Progress.

I transferred into SSU's Department of Physics from SJSU's Aerospace Engineering program, and immediately found my academic home. Yes, the department was and is small (which is likely why it's being threatened with closure), but that - along with its excellent and dedicated faculty - is its greatest strength. With its small class and cohort sizes, students get to know each of their professors and all of their classmates; nobody is just a name or student ID number. This also means that students have greater opportunities to contribute to research being conducted by the faculty, providing valuable real-world experience and ensuring that students graduating from SSU's Department of Physics are competitive with those from big-name schools.

Following my receiving a B.Sc. in Physics from SSU, I completed a Ph.D. in Geophysics from the University of British Columbia and a Postdoctoral Fellowship at U.C. Berkeley, and am now a faculty member in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Alberta. I fondly remember my time at SSU, and every one of my professors in the Department of Physics - Joe Tenn, Lynn Cominsky, Saeid Rahimi, Gordon Spear, Sam Greene, John Dunning, and Duncan Poland. In my own career as an academic, I strive to emulate both the quality of their teaching and research and the supportive environment they built at SSU. The Department of Physics might not graduate as many students as do the larger schools, but they train them well. Don't close this gem of a department.

I earned my bachelor of science in physics with a focus on astronomy from SSU in 2021. I had transferred to SSU from another CSU after feeling lost and confused about what I wanted to do with my academic career and the moment I stepped into the Physics department I immediately felt at home. Dr. Severson was the first person I met, he changed my perspective on education forever, he made me feel capable and excited about Physics. Then I met Dr. Targett and his inspiration, passion, and enthusiasm for astrophysics changed my life. I came to SSU so unsure of what I wanted to do and by the time I left I had so many dreams. This is not something you’ll find just anywhere, the physics department at SSU is home to a unique group of passionate teacher who will inevitably leave a positive mark on each of their students lives. At other CSU’s I felt overlooked and unimportant, but not at SSU and not in the Physics department. Allowing this department to close would be one of the biggest mistakes you could make, the Physics department is a cornerstone of this school and without it SSU will lose its shine. I will forever be grateful for the education and experiences I had during my time at school and it would break my heart to know no one will ever experience the department the way I had the privilege of experiencing it if you shut it down. Thank you for changing my life for the better SSU Physics.

I went into Sonoma State not knowing what I wanted to do, I was undeclared and simply chose the school because I loved the campus and the people. I wanted to do physics but honestly did not know if I was smart enough to or not. I took my first physics class with Dr. Targett and ended up declaring for a Physics major. I love physics and that love was amplified by every professor in this department. I don't think I could've gotten my degree if it weren't for the infectious passion they all have for science. My graduating group was only 8 people (don't fact check that). This small size was our strength. We all knew each other, faculty included. The professors knew my strengths and my weaknesses and their doors were always open to provide me with aid. This tight knit physics community allowed myself and many others to achieve success that they otherwise would not. I know my success is not mine alone but the realization of the efforts of everyone who worked beside me in this wonderful program.
I believe that the Sonoma State physics program is a true gem. I would not choose to have gone anywhere else. If this program gets taken away, this school will have removed one of its best departments, and have broken the hearts of many former students like myself who wish for this program to be available to all who come after us. I urge the CSU system to reconsider their decision.

I entered SSU in 2008 with a strong interest in both chemistry and physics. In my second year I went from an undeclared student to a chemistry major. At that time, I started performing physical chemistry research with Dr. Su in the Chemistry Department. Since physical chemistry lies at the interface of physics and chemistry, he advised me that I should take as many physics classes as I could; these classes would help me in my future physical chemistry classes/research at SSU and in graduate school. He was entirely right. As it turns out, I took so many physics classes that I decided to add a Physics B.A. in addition to my Chemistry B.S. while in my third year. My SSU physics classes helped give me the preparation needed to succeed in SSU’s physical chemistry classes and my graduate school classes at UCLA. Physical chemistry requires a strong understanding of both chemistry and physics, but much of the advanced physics is unfortunately taught at the time it is needed in a typical physical chemistry class. This is typical of chemistry programs and contributes to what makes physical chemistry such a difficult class. I was fortunate to see many topics and approaches in my SSU physics classes that later presented themselves in my physical chemistry classes. As a result, I learned the core concepts in my SSU physics classes and then applied them in my subsequent physical chemistry classes/research. By not being overwhelmed with the input of new material/techniques, I was able to increase my understanding for these topics that most of my chemistry peers had not seen before.

In my fourth year at SSU, I performed materials science research with Dr. Shi. I had not learned about materials science in any of my chemistry classes, but found it to be a fascinating and interdisciplinary topic. I enjoyed working hands-on with a scanning electron microscope, which is an experience not afforded to students at larger institutions. Because of my research and mentorship with Dr. Shi, when I attended UCLA for my Ph.D., I joined a physical chemistry lab that performed materials science research on plastic solar cells. Without my SSU physics education, I would not have been exposed to this field. Most importantly, by engaging with materials science before selecting which graduate school to attend, I was able to make an informed decision about what type of school and lab I wanted to attend/join.

In 2018 I was hired by Santa Rosa Junior College as a chemistry instructor, where I work closely with the physics faculty and students. I am always promoting SSU to my students as an affordable and high-quality place for a STEM education. Santa Rosa Junior College is very fortunate to have SSU so close, where our students can attend seminars like What Physicists Do and share resources/experiences. As someone who was born and raised in Sonoma County, I understand how many of my students feel when deciding which school to attend when it comes to cost. If SSU were to cease offering degrees in physics, then there would be no affordable option available for local students.

Had I attended a larger university, I would not have benefited from the personalized instruction and close research mentorship of the SSU Physics and Astronomy Department. This allowed me to grow and succeed as an undergraduate student. I strive to pay forward that mentorship as an instructor at Santa Rosa Junior College, as I have amazing examples to follow from the SSU Physics and Astronomy Department.

I chose to start at Sonoma State last fall because I was interested in the proportionally extremely diverse range of collaborations and capstone projects available through here. This high amount of connections to other institutions also translates to significantly more funding grants to SSU compared to other departments. I have already in my short time here very much enjoyed the quality of the physics department, and the willingness of my teachers to help me succeed. I hope that this program can continue long after I graduate, and future students will be afforded the same opportunities I have today.

As an alumnus of Sonoma State University’s Physics Program, earning my B.A. in Physics in 2021, I am deeply saddened to hear about the program's potential closure. The education and experiences I gained from this program were pivotal in shaping my career and life path. The physics staff at Sonoma State are top-notch and subject matter experts who are deeply invested in their students' success. Dr. Jones, in particular, had a profound impact on my academic journey. His guidance on my senior capstone project, which focused on spatial disorientation in pilots, was instrumental in my understanding of this topic.

Throughout my studies, I absorbed valuable knowledge that directly translated to my current career as a cargo pilot. The insights I gained on spatial disorientation have been vital in ensuring my safety in the demanding single-pilot freight environment. Moreover, the program's comprehensive physics curriculum helped me grasp complex concepts that I now teach to over 50 students, enriching their understanding of flight fundamentals and the physics behind them.

The Sonoma State Physics Program is more than just an academic curriculum; it is a cornerstone that fosters critical thinking, practical skills, and professional growth. It would be a great loss to future students and the broader scientific community to see this program disappear.

As an adjunct faculty member in the SSU physics and astronomy department from 2008-2023, I have had the opportunity to work directly with many talented SSU physics majors. I have been impressed with the successes of SSU physics alumni who have pursued different education and career pathways, from graduate work in physics and astronomy to leadership of local businesses.

I have also seen the SSU physics department get smaller, as some faculty have retired and fewer new faculty have been hired. The current physics faculty are deeply dedicated to SSU physics students’ education. They have kept the physics degree programs strong and agile, and have increased the efficiency of the programs so that the high quality of physics education at SSU established by past faculty has not changed despite the fact that the department has gotten smaller.

Many unique and advanced undergraduate learning opportunities exist with the SSU Observatory, the EdEon STEM Learning group, the Keck Microanalysis Lab at SSU, and SSU’s CubeSat programs, all led by SSU physics faculty and students. Faculty members’ extended collaborations provide even more opportunities. In my current position, I collaborate with faculty from Bay Area colleges (including SSU faculty) to get students involved in working with Lick Observatory. Through this collaboration, SSU physics majors are conducting real-time telescope observations for labs in their courses and even leading astronomy observing programs with research telescopes at Lick Observatory. These are just a few examples of unique opportunities that add to the depth of SSU physics majors’ training and are readily supported by SSU physics faculty, but would be severely limited if SSU cut its physics major programs.

Please do not limit SSU students’ opportunities and training by cutting physics degree programs!

Anne Metevier
Director of Lick Observatory College Partnerships
University of California Observatories

After graduating from Sonoma State with a BS in Physics and a minor in Astronomy, I went to grad school at Caltech (the top physics school in the world) under future Nobel Prize winner Kip Thorne. I got Caltech's PhD Thesis of the Year award, collaborated with researchers around the world, and played key roles in the historic discovery of gravitational waves. In a perpetually impossible job market, I was able to reconcile career and family and got full Professor positions repeatedly at Penn State, Texas Tech, and UMBC. Many of my own students are now teaching or leading researchers, and a student's student is about to get tenure at Caltech.

I never could have done this without the strong start I got from Sonoma State's Physics Department. Having been a few times around the world, I can say that the quality of the faculty and their attention to student outcomes are amazing. Very young and searching for direction, I was convinced to major in Physics by Saeid Rahimi's general education course. The major wasn't just a collection of courses. The faculty's passion for their subject and their students led me into advanced and independent studies and research with Joe Tenn, Sam Greene, Gordon Spear, and especially Lynn Cominsky. I was a difficult case and I would have floundered in a large, anonymous school without the world class and well rounded mentoring SSU Physics provided. Even the courses were done so well that I tested out of a lot of requirements at Caltech, and the independent study and research were incredibly rare and valuable opportunities. At Caltech, surrounded by the cream of the worldwide crop of physics students, I was ahead of most thanks to the start SSU had given me.

This program is a real gem. In my travels I've bumped into people from herdsmen on the steppe to Nobelists at Caltech and MIT who know the program and regard it highly. It has graduated an astonishing number of scientific leaders in academia and industry for a campus its size. Look around at other small campuses. I can't find anything comparable in California. I doubt it even nationwide. It would take decades to rebuild, even if lightning could be captured in a bottle again. The Physics Department is not just a provider of services for the name makers of the university, it IS one of the name makers.

It would be a terrible loss to the campus and the CSU system to remove such a jewel from the crown for the sake of temporary expediency. In difficult times it is natural to pare down to one's core strengths. Remember that Physics and Astronomy is one of Sonoma State's core strengths, and that it is essential to SSU's continuing mission to serve the community the state, the nation, and humanity.

The American Association of University Women sponsors a statewide, week-long residential STEM
camp for middle school girls during the summer between their 7th and 8th grades
https://www.aauw-ca.org/tech-trek/ As a career astrophysicist, and Tech Trek volunteer, I teach
several astronomy workshops on the SSU campus and am now in charge of organizing our annual
Astronomy Nights.
At Sonoma State, 90 girls participate in Tech Trek each
year, and have for the past ~20 years. The Physics and Astronomy Department plays an integral
role in Tech Trek at SSU. Each year, on the Wednesday evening of Tech Trek, we hold an
Astronomy Night. On Astronomy Night, we feature a speaker, often from faculty in the Physics and Astronomy
Department. Prof. Lynn Cominsky spoke at the 2024 Tech Trek, Wes Farriss spoke at the 2023 Tech Trek.
The second portion of Astronomy Night is when the entire camp goes out to the SSU track, where
the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Sonoma State University provides their Observatory, with
its larger aperture telescopes. Tom Targett and Wes Farriss of the Physics and Astronomy Department
have been providing the Tech Trek camp at SSU access to this wonderful resource.
Many of our girls are encouraged and inspired to pursue careers in STEM fields as a result of their
attendance at Tech Trek at SSU, and, of course, would inevitably be some of the future students
of the Physics and Astronomy Department.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy also puts on Public Observing Nights at their
Observatory facility each month. This event provides an excellent introduction to science and
astronomy to the general public and to young children who attend this event.
The main import of this testimonial is to emphasize the much wider role the Physics and Astronomy
Department plays in the life of Sonoma County and, in fact, statewide, for engaging the public
in science and inspiring the next generation to pursue productive careers in STEM fields.

I earned my BS from SSU’s Physics and Astronomy department, which gave me a deep understanding of physics that I still use everyday. The projects I worked on at SSU catapulted me into my masters program where I received my MS in Electrical Engineering at Montana State University. I was hired at the Applied Physics Lab at the University of Washington, where I worked on developing instrumentation to study the effects of global warming on our oceans, not because of who I knew but what I knew. My understanding of physics helped me work closely with the scientists to achieve results that would have been impossible without the background I received in the Physics and Astronomy department. Currently I work for the Laboratory for Laser Energetics at the University of Rochester where I work on direct drive laser nuclear fusion in support of the National Ignition Facility and other National Labs in the US.
I was appalled to hear about SSU’s shortsighted decision to eliminate the the Physics and Astronomy department because now is not the time in our history that we should be getting rid of the scientists and engineers -- we need all hands on deck to solve the issue of global warming. Climate instability is here. SSU’s role in combating this is producing quality scientists that have the critical thinking skills to apply physics in unique and novel ways to attack this problem in as many ways as possible – this might come as educational out reach, becoming scientists, or teachers that will instruct future generations. Every little bit helps. SSU has provided necessary education to those who might otherwise not been able to access and harness the skills and knowledge that is necessary to the progress we must attain. If SSU Physics and Astronomy Department did not exist I would not have been able to go to college at all.
The purpose of a university is to give its students the knowledge so that they can go forward to a make a better world. It is an investment in the quality of life we and future generations experience in the years moving forward, not only in this fiscal year. The repercussion of this action will be felt not only by local families, businesses, and institutions, but globally. The lack of foresight of this action is abhorrent, and I beg you to reconsider cutting the department. This department’s existence is not merely a line item on a budget sheet, it is a moral imperative that it be allowed to continue.

SSU’s motto is Lux Mentis, Lux Orbis – do not let it go dark.

I graduated from Sonoma State with a BA in Physics in December 2017, where I had also acted as Outreach Coordinator for the Society of Physics Students and was briefly one of the student assistants for our renowned What Physicists Do seminar. My primary interest was related to planetary studies and I did my Capstone project measuring the transit of an exoplanet around its star. I was surprised during my time to learn how many CSUs did not have as extensive astronomy resources, given astronomy is one of the gateways to science, while at SSU, I took multiple astronomy-centric courses on astrobiology, cosmology, and more. Additionally, I learned that many UC physics programs didn't even have the equivalent to the capstone project that CSUs have, with more emphasis being put on graduate studies. It is necessary that CSUs maintain their science programs and physics in particular. In these classes, even the ones not focused on my primary interests, I learned so much about how the world around me works. As someone not at a UC or private school, I would not have had this opportunity had the program been cut. Currently, I am a graduate student getting a Master's in Geography and GIS with the aim of mapping worlds outside Earth. These interests were ignited due to SSU's physics and astronomy courses offering much for a broad range of fields.

Never before have I seen a group of people more dedicated and more passionate than the students and faculty here in the SSU Physics and Astronomy Department. Although small we are a community of like minded people who put everything they have into their programs and have done so much good for SSU throughout its history such as the Makers Spaceand to cut a program because of its low enrollment and ignore all the positives this program has done not only for the students, but the campus as a whole need to be taken seriously. I know it would be a great loss to this university if we were to lose the physics degree programs.
Please! Save Sonoma Physics!

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Physics in 2012 after attending public high school and junior college, and I can confidently say that the education I received at the Sonoma State Physics Department was top-notch. For students from poorer, rural areas, affordable access to quality education is critical, especially when student debt is often unavoidable. The CSU system—and Sonoma State in particular—provided an invaluable opportunity by offering entry-level courses taught by Ph.D. professors, not graduate students. This, combined with small class sizes and accessible office hours, ensures that students like myself can engage directly with subject matter experts and receive a truly exceptional education.

The hands-on learning opportunities at Sonoma State were transformative for my career. Through my internship with the NASA EPO group, I developed real-world laboratory skills and analytical best practices that continue to serve me to this day. After graduating, I pursued a career in Silicon Valley as a Senior Audio Engineer, where I’ve now worked for 12 years. My physics degree equipped me with the foundational skills and critical thinking necessary to succeed in a technical and demanding field.

California desperately needs more technical workers who are passionate, skilled, and educated. Cutting the Sonoma State Physics Department would deprive the state of a vital pipeline of such talent. I urge decision-makers to reconsider this proposal and invest in the future of students who, like me, rely on accessible, high-quality education to build meaningful and impactful careers.

My love of Physics and investigating why our existence works the way it does started due to the physics department when I was at Rancho Cotati Highschool as a junior and attending the what physicists do lecture series after school.

Cutting physics degree programs at Sonoma State University is like dismantling the foundation of a bridge to save on maintenance costs—it might seem like an easy way to trim expenses, but it ultimately weakens the entire structure, limiting progress, discovery, and innovation.

I stand in opposition to any removal of Physics Degree programs from Sonoma State University and urge you to find the way forward with these programs intact.

I originally started off as an anthropology major at SSU, but during my sophmore year I switched to the Physics degree path. The faculty of the SSU Physics and Astronomy department are some of the kindest, hardworking, and intelligent people I've had the pleasure of knowing. My time on SSU's campus was cut short due to COVID-19. My professor's effort in keeping our online classes informative and engaging, while also understanding the mental and physical toll the pandemic was taking on everyone, was really amazing to see. I'm so grateful I got to work closely with Dr. Laura Peticolas during my senior thesis, and while working at EdEon, a STEM education company run by Dr. Peticolas and Dr. Lynn Cominsky. It was so inspiring to see successful women working in the field I'd hope to go into, which is largely male dominated. I was one of three women in my graduating class, and had only one female professor, Dr. Alex Miller, in my physics classes. It is crucial to maintain STEM programs, especially for women and girls, who are often not given the opportunity to go into these fields. Please do not let SSU be another one of the institutions taking away these opportunities.

I was a physics lab instructor at Sonoma State University for two and a half years (2022-2024) and had a wonderful experience working with the department. Every semester was different because there was always a push for improvement.
For three of the semesters that I was there, we collaborated on either creating a new lab or transforming existing ones to make them more interactive and intuitive for the students. For example, we wanted to disrupt the typical lab process in which students blindly followed instructions to perform the experiment. To do this, we created a lab in which students designed, performed, and reported on their own experiments for a given topic. This required them to think more deeply about the topics as well as allowed them to be creative in their experimental design.
It's these kinds of qualities in the department that make the SSU physics degree a great program. The professors there are devoted, caring, and effective educators. A degree in physics opens the doors for students to enter a large variety of highly regarded professional careers, as can be seen in the SSU physics alumni records. In fact, I work with several SSU physics graduates in my primary career as an optical engineer.
I believe our society needs more opportunities to accel in STEM fields, and the physics degree at SSU offers this. I truly hope this decision is reconsidered.

I am a retired physicist currently volunteering as an advisor to the EdEon program in the Sonoma State Physics Department. I retired after 33 years at a US Energy Department laboratory. I have a Ph.D degree from the University of Wisconsin. I have been supporting the SSU Department of Physics and Astronomy and advising at EdEon for about ten years. At first I was working on Learning by Making, their science-enrichment program for high-school students. Later I contributed to the spectrometer design for a small earth satellite (Cubesat) called EdgeCube, which was launched into space in December 2019. More recently I have been advising on physics issues with another small satellite called 3UCube. Along the way I have had opportunities to talk and work with students, and I have been impressed with the students I encountered. I am very unhappy with the decision to terminate the Physics Major at SSU. My experience has been that the Universities Physics graduates were of excellent quality, well prepared (as their record shows) to go on to graduate school, or to succeed at a variety of jobs after graduation. I know what a productive, successful physics department is like, and the SSU Physics department deserves to be recognized and supported for its excellence.

I am a colleague of Professor Lynn Cominsky and visited the Physics and Astronomy Department at Sonoma State University a few years ago, in part to meet with Dr. Cominsky's group, and in part to give a physics colloquium. I would like to say that my experience at Sonoma State was first rate. I quite admired both the impressive department and Prof. Cominsky's amazing outreach group. I have spoken with Dr. Cominsky several times in the past about topics in astrophysics and physics and can attest that her knowledge, outreach, and research skills are first rate and widely admired. In my opinion, Sonoma State has real excellence here which it should value highly. 

- Robert Nemiroff  
University Professor of Physics at Michigan Technological University 
Fellow of the American Physical Society

I spent my first two years at SSU exploring different majors, unsure of where I belonged. It wasn’t until I took an introductory physics course and a class on cosmology that I found my home in the Physics Department.

Some of my fondest memories from that time are the countless hours spent in the library’s math lounge—grappling with coursework, forming lifelong friendships, and growing both academically and personally. The faculty played a pivotal role in this journey. Their vast knowledge and diverse experiences in research, innovation, and industry were invaluable. Seeing how they applied their expertise—whether through groundbreaking discoveries, impactful inventions, or success in the commercial world—was truly inspiring.

Though I ultimately pursued a career outside of core physics, I carried the lessons and relationships from SSU with me. Today, I’ve built a successful career—first as a Unix administrator, then as a cybersecurity analyst, and now as a sales engineer for a leading security company. I attribute much of this success to the incredible professors, facilities, and peers I had at SSU’s Physics Department.

I may never be able to give back in the same way that Dr. Tenn, Dr. Shi, and Dr. Hichwa have, but I am deeply grateful for the time and dedication they invested in my education. Now, as a father of two young boys, I strive to pass on the lessons I learned at SSU—hoping that one day, they too will contribute something meaningful to this pale blue dot we call home.

The Physics Department at SSU is more than just a program; it’s a foundation for critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. I urge you to continue supporting and funding it, so future students can experience the same transformative education that shaped my life.

The SSU physics departments currently provides SSU students with a chance to breach into fields that they might have not considered.

As a school in the Northern California, home to technological advances in Silicon Valley/Bay area, a lack of formal physics education would severely hinder prospective students from enrolling.


I sincerely urge the decision to be reconsidered.

As a graduate from the physics department, the Scientific training I received at the physics department geared me towards success in the tech industry as I learned how to approach decisions from a more data based approach.

I have enjoyed a thirty year career in public education since graduating from S.S.U. with a physics degree in 1993. Most of that time I have been a high school physics teacher. While a physics major at S.S.U. I learned I can handle challenging and difficult work. I learned that if I leaned into a problem , asked for help, studied and kept at, I could do almost anything I set my mind to. Through the physics courses I took, I learned some of the secrets of how the universe worked. I also learned important critical thinking and organizational skills. One of my favorite memories of my time at S.S.U. was when I worked as a research assistant to Dr. Gordan Spear on his I.R.A.S. data reduction and analysis project. That was a very positive experience and I learned a great deal from that experience as well.

An S.S.U. physics degree is very versatile and the department has greatly benefitted industry, education and the North Bay community as whole. The physics department has always been there to support local science teachers, Closing down the department would be a mistake and would leave a gap in the educational fabric of the North Bay.

Sincerely,
Matt Davis
Class of 1993

The critical thinking skills I developed when studying for my physics degree has made me, without question, better at my job. As a first generation college student from a lower income family I wasn't sure about getting any kind of degree, but the faculty was welcoming and the material turned out to be exactly what I needed to focus and develop a professional career. The fundamentals of physics apply to much more than just physics itself; I'm a better software developer, communicator and organizer for having had this experience. Losing a program that has brought in substantial grant funding and resources for SSU would be a loss for the community. Doing so at a time when data science and related jobs are becoming more and more important would be a huge mistake for the university.

As a graduate of the SSU Physics and Astronomy department, I am strongly opposed to eliminating this department. The impact of the P&A department on the lives of their students and the larger campus community is innumerable. I graduated from SSU in 2015, with my B.S. in Physics and a minor in Astronomy. I completed my Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2023. My achievements within the realm of physics, research, leadership, and advocacy/policy-related all stem from the highly personalized support and teaching I received at SSU.

What makes the SSU P&A department so unique is that it is a well-rounded physics department at a teaching university. You take all of your classes with professors and lecturers, this sets us apart from bigger, R1 institutions where labs are often taught by graduate students. Despite the size, there is a rich research environment, providing a lower barrier for undergraduate research experience, having been in other departments, I have seen how rare this is. Additionally, the Physics Club, Society of Physics Students (SPS), provides peer-to-peer support, unparalleled by what I have experienced at other institutions. One of the main issues in Physics is the lack of support for under-represented groups - BIPOC, women, LGBTQIA+, etc - and when we are as inclusive as possible, science benefits. A small but mighty department can provide this support while prepping students for competitive internships and graduate schools. Taking away this resource hurts not only the campus and surrounding Sonoma County communities, but also affects the far-reaching work of bringing and retaining under-represented groups to Physics as a subject.

Personally, I contribute my major successes to the teaching, guidance, and care of the SSU P&A department. As an undergraduate transfer student, I came in with the plan to complete a B.S. in Physics but no confidence in going further. This department, particularly the mentorship of Dr. Lynn Cominsky, instilled in me the confidence and deep desire to contribute not only to scientific research but, like her, help the women and minorities who come after me by actively engaging in advocacy and outreach. I have, and I will carry this with me for life.

Cutting the Physics and Astronomy Department would be a terrible misstep by SSU.

Physics and Astronomy plays a critical role both within Sonoma State, and in the greater community. Many graduates of the program go on to stay in the area and contribute to local technology innovators like Keysight Technologies. Many others, myself included, have continued their education in various graduate programs. I grew up in Sonoma County and without the opportunity to study physics at my local university for my bachelors, I would not have a PhD today. One cannot overstate the need for this program within the community the University serves.

A physics program at SSU enriches both the university and the community. SSU has benefited from excellent physics faculty. The removal of this program will hurt the university’s ability to attract the necessary talent to serve as foundational educators for other STEM and pre-med programs. If SSU desires to stay relevant as a hub of education, alternative methods to balance this budget need to be taken. Short sighted measures will not benefit the university, the students, or the community in the long run.

On a personal level, the experiences SSU Physics offered were numerous, unique, and crucial to my development as a scientist and as a community member. Larger university physics departments are not able to provide the level of one-on-one teaching that Sonoma State does. Nor do larger universities have opportunities to learn and begin teaching as a student like SSU does with the Observatory and the Public Viewing Nights. Furthermore, without the close interactions and support of the faculty within the physics department, I would not have had the opportunities or encouragement that resulted in an internship on Capitol Hill, acceptance to a graduate program, or a council seat for the National Society of Physics Students. Future students deserve these opportunities. I implore SSU to change their decision and maintain a physics program.

I am a Physics Instructor at Santa Rosa Junior College. My colleagues and I were stunned and deeply disheartened by the news of the planned elimination of Physics degrees at SSU. Physics is a core academic discipline, and it is difficult to believe that it is at risk of being removed from SSU’s degree offerings.

Over my nine years at SRJC, we have consistently sent students to SSU to complete their Physics B.A. or B.S., participate in internship programs, and gain research experience. They have gone on to completing their degrees and building successful careers. Removing such opportunities for our students would have a significant negative impact on the broader scientific community.

I hope we see a reversal of this unprecedented decision.

I am a proud 1995 graduate of Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Physics. SSU was close to home and affordable, which made it possible for me to pursue my passion for science—something I wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise. The university’s observatory was also a place of wonder for me. Public viewing nights sparked a lifelong fascination with astronomy.

The loss of Physics and Astronomy degree programs at SSU worries me deeply. These programs don’t just educate students—they inspire curiosity, foster innovation, and provide essential outreach to local schools and the community. They were life-changing for me and have the potential to do the same for countless others.

Please fight to keep these degree programs funded and thriving. California needs leaders in science, technology, and education, and these programs play a crucial role in that future.

As many others, the first physics class I had take I was fretting over, all I'd ever head was how hard, tedious, and time consuming it is. That is until I actually took the class for myself. Now don't get me wrong, it was the hardest, most tedious, and most time consuming class I had ever taken in my entire life. But as a current senior at SSU, I grew a passion for understanding the universe, and the world all around us. Physics is not only the application of math, it is a way of thinking, a way of seeing the world, and a way of deduction. It is the foundation for all physical sciences and the next step to uncovering mysteries of our universe.
During my time at SSU I have been shown how to fail and how to get back up and succeed. Working so closely with Dr. Miller and Dr. Shi have taught me a work ethic I never knew. I now know how to teach myself material, ask the right questions, how to collaborate, and so much more. These skills directly apply to my job at LBNL, where I collaborate with my team but also spend hours by myself learning new information. I have been able to watch not only myself, but all my classmates around me, grow and succeed. Whether we have graduated or not, we are all making a difference around our communities and beyond. This was only possible due to our hard working professors, and amazingly integrated physics community.
Physics is also just that, a community. It is filled with people who care, people who work hard, and people that go the extra mile. Our department is no different. Everywhere you look you'll see professors dedicating their lives to teaching the next generations, students dedicated to working together and helping each other rise to the top. Because of this amazing community I have had the chance to work with some of the most amazing people, people who I will be lucky to consider life long friends.
If the SSU physics department is gone, community involvement dissipates, research dwindles, and the ability to spread the love and joy of science and math vanishes. Please let us give these amazing opportunities to the next scientists.

When selecting a university, I applied to numerous institutions across California, including many within the UC system. While I was fortunate to be accepted into almost all of them, I chose Sonoma State University for its small class sizes and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with my professors. This decision has proven invaluable, as SSU has provided me with an enriching education and opportunities I would not have found elsewhere. Working for Dr. Cominsky’s grant-funded research unit, EdEon, has allowed me to develop skills in STEM education research, programming, and curriculum development, strengthening my ability to pursue my goal of becoming a physics professor. Additionally, a faculty member has provided me with laboratory space and equipment to develop engaging physics education tools using virtual reality. These experiences have been pivotal in my academic journey, and I fear that eliminating SSU’s physics program would deprive future students of similar opportunities.

The professors and lecturers at Sonoma State University have been more than educators to me; they've been personable mentors. The conversations I've had with faculty outside of lectures have provided me with invaluable wisdom and profoundly impacted my future. Discontinuing the Physics program would deny current and future students the chance to engage in this supportive and enriching educational experience, ultimately hindering their ability to pursue their career goals. Students who thrive and place value in personal learning environments and close-knit academic communities should have access to higher education institutions that meet their needs. Cutting Sonoma State's physics program would be a disservice to them and our economy, which relies on innovation from diverse people.

Please consider the broader impact of eliminating programs like Physics and work side-by-side with educators to find alternative solutions. I urge the Board of Trustees to reconsider the proposed cuts and to protect the programs that make SSU a place where all students can thrive.

I am a proud graduate of the SSU Physics and Astronomy Department, earning my degree with distinction. During my time at SSU, I led the effort to create the university’s first radio telescope—what became known as the Very Small Array, a small interferometer. I was also honored to serve as President of the Society of Physics Students, fostering a community of curiosity and exploration among my peers.

Upon graduation, I secured a position at Boston University’s Center for Space Physics as a Night Assistant Data Analyst. Within a few years, I was promoted to Staff Scientist, overseeing the operations, image processing, and data analysis of the Mobile Ionospheric Observatory. Over the course of my career, I gathered over 1,000 nights of observations, tracking phenomena such as Stable Auroral Red Arches—beautiful and complex structures in the upper atmosphere caused by geomagnetic storms. I was also part of a small research team that discovered the Jovian Magneto Nebula, a vast cloud of sodium emissions originating from the volcanic activity of Jupiter’s moon, Io. Additionally, I captured the first images of the lunar sodium atmosphere, expanding our understanding of how the Moon interacts with the solar wind.

My work also extended to sounding rocket experiments, which provided insights into ionospheric airglow and Spread F, a phenomenon in which irregularities in the Earth's ionosphere disrupt radio signals, affecting global communications and GPS systems. Understanding Spread F is crucial for mitigating its impact on navigation and communication technologies.

All of these discoveries and contributions were made possible by the solid education, hands-on experience, and passion for learning that SSU instilled in me.

For the past 30 years, I have worked in software development for the healthcare industry, stepping away from the sciences. However, my passion for discovery never faded. Recently, I have had the opportunity to return to research as an independent cosmologist. Over the past several years, I have developed a new theoretical framework, The Spacetime-Energy Continuum (STEC). This model extends Einstein’s General Relativity by treating time progression as a fundamental quantity governed by energy density. STEC offers a natural explanation for cosmic inflation, late-time acceleration, and the Hubble Tension—one of the biggest unresolved issues in modern cosmology. It also provides insights into the unexpected discoveries made by the James Webb Space Telescope, including high-redshift galaxies that appear too mature for their age under standard models.

None of this would have been possible without the foundation I received from SSU’s Physics and Astronomy Department. Eliminating this department would be a tremendous loss to the scientific community in California and beyond. SSU has a long history of producing graduates who go on to make meaningful contributions to science, technology, and industry. Future students deserve the same opportunities that I had—the ability to explore, to innovate, and to contribute to humanity’s understanding of the universe.

I urge the decision-makers at SSU and the California State University system to reconsider the proposed cuts. Investing in physics and astronomy is an investment in the future—one that will pay dividends not only in scientific discoveries but also in the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that physics students bring to a wide range of industries.

Sonoma State University shaped my career and my passion for discovery. Let’s ensure it continues to do the same for future generations.

I graduated with a B.S. in physics in 1977-1978. I immediately found a great job using my physics, math, and computing skills at a government research facility in Marina Del Rey My career leveraged all the skills I developed at SSU. Most valuable of all was the skill of learning which prepared me to adapt to whatever problem I faced. I retire as chief architect of BigFix at IBM.

I attribute my success to the unique learning experience I had at SSU.

The Sonoma State University Physics department was a watershed era of my life. My time there unlocked a path in my life that K-12 teachers in nearby Solano County always suspected possible, but never foresaw actually coming to fruition. After studying Physics at SSU, I would continue my education and complete my PhD in Materials Science at University of California, Riverside. While there, I found myself more than adequately prepared for advanced study, relative to peers of larger universities. Now I work as a data Scientist for the semiconductor capital equipment company KLA, with numerous personal side projects that excite me greatly.

My path was through SSU Physics. I do not have confidence that path would have materialized in a different place. SSU represented a safe place - close to my family - for me to study and mature as a person within an environment of close mentorship that I found from experience is not always offered at the undergrad level. I will never forget what SSU Physics provided for me, and I hope it will continue to for others.

Back in 2008 I started looking for local speakers for a science series at my son's high school. This was how I first learned about Sonoma State's Physics and Astronomy department, its fascinating research, and its many resources for both students and the community at large. Since then, multiple professors and graduate students from the department have come to present at the Marin Science Seminar, sharing their expertise, their research, and inspiring local youth to learn more. Every week during the academic year I have received the "What Physicists Do" email with information on the weekly free lecture (with cookies!) by an expert in physics and astronomy. It is simply mind-boggling that a field of such fundamental importance would be placed on the chopping block. Bring Physics and Astronomy back to Sonoma State!

Don't Shut Down the Last Gas Station Before the Desert!

I was shocked to hear that SSU is shutting down its Physics & Astronomy degree program. While an introductory course will remain, the opportunity for students to pursue a full degree in these fundamental sciences will be gone.

This decision is like shutting down the last gas station before a long stretch of desert.

This leaves students in Northern California with no affordable pathway to study physics and astronomy at a public university. Without this program, countless students who dream of becoming scientists, engineers, or educators will have nowhere to turn—unless they can afford the steep costs of private institutions or relocate far from home.

SSU has been a lifeline for students like me. I needed a high-quality, low-cost education to pursue my career in STEM. Like ALL of my fellow students, SSU was our gateway to advanced careers in science and engineering. Eliminating the Physics & Astronomy degree doesn't just impact the university - it weakens the entire scientific and educational landscape of the region.

This program deserves support, not closure.

I urge SSU to reconsider before shutting down the program that is now -- and has long been -- guiding students in Northern California toward discovery, innovation, and a brighter future in science and engineering.

As a physics graduate from UC Irvine who now works as a staff member for Engineering and Computer Science, I am appalled that the administration has reduced such a valuable program to merely being a minor. Physics teaches many valuable skills beyond simply being a field unlike any other offered at this university. Moreover, as someone with a similar astrophysics concentration, I dreamed of having access to an on-campus observatory like SSU's. To make way for "necessary" budget cuts, students are going to be deprived the opportunity to truly learn the benefits of an observatory and how to appreciate the stars. So many valuable programs are being destroyed by this administration's choices, and my heart goes out to all the physics and astronomy students whose lives are being upended.

Attending and graduating from the Physics and Astronomy Department was a transformative experience for me!

I began attending Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1978, and stayed for five years as a floundering Electronic Engineering major. The school as a whole, and my Department there, just wasn't providing the support and direction I needed. I was taking all the classes I was supposed to be taking... and every class under the sun besides. I couldn't stay focused, and my advisor had so many students under his care that I slipped through the cracks. His untimely death only made things worse... I wasn't assigned a new advisor, and his records of the students under his direction were locked down so tight in his computer that no one was ever able to access them. In a school as large as Cal Poly, I was set adrift... forgotten... and eventually I lost momentum and dropped out.

Several years later, my parents impressed upon me the value of completing my degree and said they would help support my return to University. I applied to Sonoma State in 1987 and was accepted... as a Physics major. This surprised me quite a bit! Me? A Physics major? But after reviewing my transcripts, it was suggested that this was the best fit for me at SSU, given the course work I had taken at Cal Poly. I didn't really see myself as a "Physics Major" type of student and was highly skeptical that it would be successful in this field.

It was a meeting with the Department head at the time, Dr. Dunn, that changed my mind. He took the time to meet with me and listened carefully to my story and my concerns. My assured me that he would do everything in his powers to make sure I graduated... assuming I worked hard at it and stayed focused. His personal attention made me a believer. He assigned Dr. Tenn to be my advisor, and together we created a pathway for me to attain my BA in Physics.

It wasn't easy, to be sure. Going back to school as a working adult posed many challenges. My first child was born during my final year, during finals week (of course). And I couldn't resist dabbling in my second interest, Philosophy. Together with Dr. Tenn, we charted a course that not only allowed me to graduate, but to fit in enough Philosophy courses to allow me to complete a minor in Philosophy as well.

I am so grateful to Sonoma State. I feel that the main reason I was successful here was due to the fact the Sonoma is not some giant, impersonal institution like most of the other Cal State Universities. Sonoma State is just the right size to meet the needs of the student I was. A place where the Department head has the time to have a personal relationship with their students. A place with sufficient flexibility to make room for a non-traditional student like me. MY Alma Matter!

So, what happened next? After owning a small business for a time, I decided I wanted to become a school teacher. I attained a teaching credential from CalstateTEACH and began my second career. I wasn't sure why I might need a University degree at the time I graduated... but life's journey is full is twists and turns and my interests changes. I began teaching 17 years ago, something that would not have been possible otherwise. I teach mostly Middle School students, and my specialties: are math and science!

No one knows what the future will bring. It looks like Sonoma State is in a bit of a lull right now... but will this short term trend continue indefinitely? I doubt it! The students will be back... careers requiring college degrees are not going away... and I am optimistic that Sonoma State will continue to add value to the State of California and the residents of the North Bay.

I see only one possible obstacle to my bright vision of the future: If all the programs that make Sonoma State what it is are cut, then students WON'T come. If the school can't meet their needs, more and more students will turn elsewhere. Sonoma State fills an important niche in the Cal State system. Cutting valuable programs will make it irrelevant in the future. The future will be needed more and more professionals with Physics and Astronomy skills.

Eliminating this program might reflect the retrograde thinking currently dominating the news and our popular culture... but the tide will turn! Retain this important and visionary program. The future will rely on space technology and materials science. These future needs are being met right now in real time by the graduates from the Physics and Astronomy Department from my generation. These skills will become even more important in the near future.

DON'T DRAIN THE PIPELINE!

Retain this vibrant program... It's part of what makes Sonoma State special!

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Physics from Sonoma State University in 1989. I had originally chosen a very different major, but after taking an introductory astronomy course taught by Professor Joe Tenn during my first semester at SSU, I became fascinated with Astronomy and Physics. I was captivated by what I learned in Professor Tenn’s course, and the idea that we (as humans) could use physics as a tool to begin to comprehend the universe. Professor Tenn’s positive comments on my final term paper prompted me to decide to switch my major to Physics. I came to see him in the Spring 1986 term to ask him how to make this happen, and although I’m sure he must have been surprised, he reacted with kindness, patience, and encouragement. He explained the steps I would need to take to become a physics major and he continued to actively mentor and support me throughout the rest of my time at SSU. He was honest with me about the challenges that lay ahead for me, but he conveyed a sincere faith in my abilities. All of the faculty who taught me at SSU - especially Joe Tenn, John Dunning, Lynn Cominsky, and Duncan Poland - were unfailingly reassuring and kind and they clearly cared about their students’ educational and professional lives.

The coursework and training I had as an SSU Physics major prepared me for each of the next steps in my career. For example, the computer programming skills I learned in a required course at SSU were crucial to my landing a job after graduation. The “What Physicists Do” series at SSU opened my eyes to the enormous variety of careers and professional paths available to people with physics degrees and training. Professor Tenn encouraged me to apply to summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) programs, especially the astronomy REU at Maria Mitchell Observatory (MMO) on Nantucket Island. I had my first research experience at MMO and decided then that I wanted to become a professional astronomer. I worked for several years as a programmer-analyst at NASA and the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and then eared a Ph.D. in Astronomy at Yale. I was hired as a faculty member in the Department of Astronomy at Indiana University (IU) in 2007. I have taught hundreds of students at IU and have supervised student researchers at all levels, from undergraduates to Ph.D. students; this summer, my 7th Ph.D. student will defend her dissertation.

When I teach my large introductory courses in astronomy for non-majors at IU, I try to convey the same excitement and enthusiasm that Professor Tenn and the other faculty at SSU conveyed to me so clearly. Every step of my academic and professional career was made possible by the Physics program at SSU and the unfailing support and mentoring that I received from the faculty in that program, especially Joe Tenn. I know that there are many other students with paths similar to mine - students who were inspired to consider a career in STEM by the faculty and instructors in the SSU Physics and Astronomy department, and who were taught and mentored by patient, kind, talented physics and astronomy faculty. I am heartbroken to hear that the Physics major may be discontinued at SSU; this is an enormous loss to the community, the larger CSU system, and to physics and astronomy as field I urge you to rethink this — SSU had an enormous impact on my life and career and my sincere hope is that the same opportunities afforded to me will continue to be available to others.

Katherine Rhode
Professor of Astronomy
Indiana University

Physics and Astronomy has provided in depth education in science. With the lowest possible expenses it has given advanced level classes for the most amazing and talented students. The professors I have worked with are 120% devoted to their students success and professional success.
Astronomers operate observatories and undergraduates have launched satellites. Experts in their fields, faculty excel at teaching and have provided public programs and research grants to employ students. This department is a gem in the CSU and its outstanding students have contributed to science, computer, medical, material science, engineering, and astronomy fields.
Dedicated Underpaid professional Faculty have taught me Nuclear Engineering, radiation measurement, laser and image analysis skills.

Sonoma State University’s Physics Department changed my life. The rigorous education and mentorship I received from Dr. Severson, Dr. Shi, and Dr. Targett taught me more than just physics—they instilled persistence, ingenuity, and the confidence to tackle any challenge. These lessons have been foundational in my journey from a student to the President and CEO of a thriving local business.

Physics isn’t just about equations on a board. It’s about problem-solving, critical thinking, and learning how to break down complex systems—skills that I apply daily in managing budgets, forecasting success, and driving innovation in the trades. My physics degree empowered me to transform my family's company into a leader in the industry, and I am proud to give back through three scholarships: a physics-specific award, a Green Science Award for sustainable technology, and a travel fund to ensure students can attend transformative events.

Sonoma State’s Physics Department is not just a program—it’s a community that fosters excellence. Cutting it would be a devastating loss, not only to future students but to the industries and innovations that depend on the problem-solvers this department produces. I urge the university to recognize the true value of physics and fight to keep this program alive.

#SavePhysicsSonoma

I went in to the physics program at SSU because I took a descriptive physics class with Dr. Dunning and his enthusiasm for the subject was infectious. At the time I did not know what I wanted to do with my life, remembered that physics was pretty cool in high school, so I said "Why not major in Physics? That should do".

I was not a great student when I started doing Physics.

In going through they Physics curriculum at SSU, everything was very hard. Classes were hard, homework was hard, tests were hard. But the one thing that wasn't hard was going and talking to my professors when I needed help or support. The faculty was always there no matter how silly my questions were or how far I was behind, and that was the reason for my success.

I did not end up pursuing further education in Physics past getting my bachelors degree from SSU. But what I learned has made me prepared for pretty much anything that has bene thrown at me because Physics taught me how to understand and conquer most any problem.

With the way the world is going today, we need to do absolutely everything in our power to ensure that humans continue to be educated in how the universe works. We need people who can question reality with a sharp mind, especially because reality is rapidly being blurred by Artificial Intelligence and that trend is not going slow down any time soon.

Humans understanding Physics is vital to the continued success of humankind. Stay on the wagon please.

I earned my BA in Physics and Communication Studies at Sonoma State University in 1989. I then earned my CA Single Subject Teaching Credential at SSU before embarking on a successful 33-year career teaching public high school physics. I could not have succeeded without the continued support from faculty at SSU in the early years of my career. Dr. Lynn Cominsky was instrumental in guiding my path but there were others who contributed to my growth as well.

I can't imagine SSU without a degree program in physics. The future is technology heavy and physics is fundamental to understanding and improving technology. I sincerely hope the department will continue. Sad to contemplate the alternative.

I will always be grateful to the SSU Physics department for the significant changes they helped me make in my life. I spent most of my time at SSU working a full time job and supporting a new family at home. I did as much as I could in the evenings and over extended lunch hours but when I was laid off in 2005 I was still looking at almost 2 years left due to certain classes only being offered every other year. I knew if I got another full time job I would not be able to complete school and without my degree I was going to be stuck in the dead end work I had been doing. To my great joy the Physics department worked with me to get me all the classes I needed in the next two semesters. I worked individually with several professors to get the unscheduled classes done as well as attending the regularly scheduled ones. I even had the opportunity to do graduate level research with my favorite professor. The SSU Physics department went above and beyond to help me reach my goals and changed my life forever. Taking this resource away from future students and returning students trying to improve their lives would be a huge disservice to the community. A degree in Physics is a key that unlocks the doors to good, high paying jobs. I have spent the last 18 years telling any person interested in higher education about my experience and what SSU did for my life, don't let that story end with....but that's all gone now.

I have interacted with the physics and astronomy faculty for decades, as the Executive Director of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (the country's oldest national astronomy and educational organization) and as a leader in a variety of Bay Area science outreach programs. The influence of the department extends far beyond the excellent students they teach and graduate. They have been extremely influential in science education and outreach throughout the Bay Area. They have sponsored workshops and symposia for educators, and their lecture series on "What Physicists Do" is a role model for such programs around the country. The NASA education programs they have run are an influence and a model for the whole country. If this department were discontinued, not only would it be a blow to the reputation of Sonoma State, but it would be greatly missed throughout the Bay Area and the nation.

Getting a degree in physical science from SSU really gave me purpose when I desperately needed it. This program has saved and changed my life in so many ways, I honestly don't know what I would have done had this route not been available for me, and it saddens me to think this experience and opportunity might not be a possibility for someone that needs it as badly as I did.

I will forever remember how easy and enjoyable learning physics and engineering was with Dr. Kassis, which made me love them even more. And how Dr. Targett tied so many complex and difficult to grasp topics that helped deepen my understanding of many daunting theories and subjects. Dr. Shi seemed to be available literally ANY time I had any questions or needed help planning my undergraduate stay at SSU.

That early spark ignited during a viewing night at SSU's observatory for extra credit for a high school AP physics course propelled me into this field and set my life's course.

Science is fundamental to understanding ourselves and the universe. It's bewildering to see so many vital science programs at risk while others (I will refrain from listing them by name lol) remain untouched. Science isn't just a subject; it's the engine of progress—the only way to answer the profound questions that still haunt humanity. To diminish this field sends a dangerous message to future generations – that science isn't important, when, in fact, it's paramount.

SSU has a rich history of groundbreaking research and impactful programs, including many that have been pioneered by Dr. Cominsky. It's crucial to preserve this legacy and continue pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. The unanswered questions are countless, and science is our only path to finding the answers.

The Sonoma State Physics department has played an incredible role in my professional and personal development. This agency gave me the chance to pursue the awe inspiring field of optics, for which I am forever grateful. Everyday at work I apply what I learned from the Sonoma State Physics department.

The department gave me access to advanced technology, insight into complex mathematics, and most earnestly an exercise in humility. There was more to the subject of physics than waves, forces, and the math used to explain them. There was the camaraderie of fellow students studying long hours attempting to unravel integrals and derivatives before every exam. There was the leadership one felt as a senior student helping the freshman grasp new material. There was the constant drive for improvement because you could never rest on the success of your last test.

Because physics is not easy. The importance of written materials in physics is significant, but the professionals that are able to teach and explain physics is absolutely critical! The professors and staff of the Sonoma State Physics department are masters of the trade. They are leaders, they are encouraging, they are knowledgeable, and most importantly, always willing to help their students. Too lose that staff and that department would be equivalent to throwing your gold in the garbage because someone said it was too heavy.

I appreciate the education I received from Sonoma State University, it was informative and hard. There was no easy way around it, there was only through it. As John F Kennedy said at Rice University in 1962,

“We choose to go to the Moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too.”

I graduated with a degree in physics from SSU in 1987. It has helped me in every aspect of my professional endeavors, from electrical engineering, software development, and even music and acoustics. More importantly, it taught me how to approach things analytically, using scientific method and empirical analysis. The faculty in that department sparked an interest and curiosity in me that continues to this day, and I would not be the person I am without it.

I earned my Bachelor's degree in physics in 2015 after four years of learning from, and performing research with, the fantastic faculty and staff of SSU's physics department. Dr. Severson and the rest of the faculty worked with me to develop a course of study that allowed me to combine my interests in physics with applications in environmental technologies and engineering. This laid the foundation for me to attend UC Berkeley for a graduate degree in engineering, and started me on the path to my current career. I now hold a leadership position in engineering at a renewable energy company, developing and building power plants that will fight climate change and support growing energy demand in the US for decades.

The excellence of the faculty and facilities at SSU's physics department, diversity of courses, collaborations with other departments, and value for tuition all stand out to me as unique among similar programs based on conversations I've had with other physics majors in my career. Growing up in Northern California, I'm proud to have attended such a high quality program at a local university, and hope that future students can benefit from the same programs in the future.

My name is C. Wesley Farriss II, and I am proud to say that I worked as an adjunct instructor for the Sonoma State Department of Physics and Astronomy from August 2006 until my retirement in December 2023. I never stopped marveling over my good fortune to find myself among such truly impressive members of my chosen profession. Moreover, they shared my passion to pass their knowledge on to others, and thus I truly found a home there.

Many other individuals can speak more directly about the numbers of successful graduates of the Department’s degree programs, so I would like to speak of areas I am more versed in, namely the department’s services to the greater STEM and general student bodies. With the exception of a few of our majors “bridging-up,” my students were either STEM students fulfilling their Physics requirements or general population students fulfilling their laboratory or science class requirements. Most semesters through that 18-year period I was responsible for up to 300+ students per semester. Consider I was only one of a number of professors and adjuncts through this period.

The point is please do not overlook the contributions that the department made to the entire University! From our own majors to the student population as a whole, to the surrounding community via educational outreach programs, the SSU Department of Physics and Astronomy has more than earned its continuing place as a valuable asset to the University community and Sonoma County. Please see that it continues.

C. Wesley Farriss II
Retired Lecturer
Sonoma State University

My name is Keith Waxman and I graduated with my BA in Physics from SSU in 1990. My experience at SSU was instrumental in me continuing on to get my MS from San Francisco State University. I was privileged to take classes from many wonderful physics and astronomy professors while attending SSU. I have had many friends that feel the same. Without my education at SSU, I would never have been able to attain my current position of full-time astronomy instructor at Santa Rosa Junior College. I teach over 400 students a semester and always recommend transferring to SSU for anyone wanting to go into physics and/or astronomy. I was shocked to hear about the cuts of so many programs a couple of weeks ago. Education, especially in the sciences, is the last hope to rectify the damages being done to our world. Money should be pouring into education, not the other way around. Please do not let our future suffer by a lack of foresight.

I was extremely fortunate to receive my Bachelors of Science from Sonoma State in 2019. SSU has a extraordinary and unique Physics program what provides students with a rigorous program while receiving exceptional mentorship from professors. As a student-athlete with a complicated training and travel schedule, I was always supported by my professors to ensure that I was given the same opportunities as my fellow students. Additionally, with a smaller program like the SSU Physics program, I became very close with all of my classmates which was a very unique experience compared to other degree programs. It was with this support and sense of community from the SSU physics professors and my classmates, that I gained the confidence to enter my career in engineering and eventually receive a masters in Mechanical Engineering so that I could make an impact in the clean energy space. I urge the CSU system to reconsider this decision to ensure that futures students can have access to an incredible program like the Sonoma State Physics Department.

Sonoma State has particularly strong physics degree programs among Cal State Universities, offering exceptional research and learning opportunities e.g. through the Sonoma State Observatory as well as through connections to UC’s Lick Observatory. Sonoma State regularly produces physics alumni who successfully complete graduate degrees at UC campuses; ~5 Sonoma State alumni are currently in our physics and astronomy graduate programs.

Sonoma State is uniquely positioned as the only public liberal arts university in California and as one of only four Cal State campuses north of San Francisco. Limiting education opportunities at this institution will have a large negative impact on our state, and the physics major should be especially highly valued because of the strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills imparted by the program.

Please do not cut the physics degree programs at Sonoma State!

Bruce Macintosh
Director, University of California Observatories

The Sonoma State Physics program is an amazing institution. My BA in Physics is the cornerstone of my career as a Patent Attorney. It was also one of the most intellectual enriching experiences of my life. I am very saddened to here that this program may be discontinued. I would strongly encourage reconsideration of the decision. I was just speaking with a founder of a materials science company in Silicon Valley. This particular company recently received a valuation of over 100 million dollars. I asked the CEO what enabled him to found the company and create its key innovations, he said without hesitation that it all began with his undergrad Physics degree! In the coming age of AI, he added that he thought degrees that develop deep technically flexible thinkers will be highly needed and sought after. As a regional university, it is important that SSU enable locals to access the coming AI economy. This will be greatly hindered without access to the current wonderful Physics program.

Because of my education at Sonoma State, I have had a successful career as a Physicist and Computer Hardware / Software Engineer. Plus I have been able to continue my education at several graduate schools. The reasons are because of the time and efforts of the professors and staff of Sonoma State. At a time when we need more technical people that other students could not have the opportunity to have such a great education.

I earned a B.S. in Physics with a minor in Astronomy from Sonoma State in 1996. I feel the courses I took there along with the personal interaction I had my professors helped me become the instructor and professor I am today. I feel the enthusiasm and passion my professors had for physics and astronomy was infectious and inspired many students. I initially wanted to work in electronics, but after Dr. Poland's amazing class on the subject, I realized it was not for me but there were many who thrived in the course! Then after Dr Spear's Introductory Astronomy Laboratory I knew I had found my calling! From that point on I focused on anything the department had to offer with respect to Astronomy and Astrophysics. This included the advanced laboratory and even helping develop lower division labs (with Dr. Spear's guidance) and helping with public viewing nights. I really do feel this is where my path in teaching started as I was always pushed to explore options on how to help other students learn physics and astronomy. The courses materials prepared me for graduate school and I loved being able to work with the school observatory and radio telescopes. Also the department's Unix computers and student access opened my eyes to more computing options that the school itself offered. I would not have learned as much Unix as I did if it had not been for the SSU physics department.

As an community college professor at Folsom Lake College try to emulate the many of the professors I had at Sonoma State. I always try to channel the exuberance and passion that Dr. Dunning had for physics and the passion he had for teaching. Many a time I have pulled some obscure physics or astronomy historical fact for my class that Dr. Tenn had shared with the many courses I had taken from him. And of course I use the humor Dr. Rahimi used when teaching complicated subjects like electricity and magnetism or introductory classes like lower division labs. He showed me a laugh and smile helped break the barriers that many students have when it comes to complicated topics like physics and astronomy. There are so many more examples here of how SSU physics prepared me for the teaching and students I encounter everyday.

I hope the department that has helped so many students and has so many opportunities for undergraduate research and close one on instruction will be saved as I hope it can help future generations of students become professionals in their fields like is has for me,

Daniel Hale
Professor of Physics and Astronomy
Folsom Lake College

Participating in the SSU physics department from 2009-2013 was the most fulfilling educational experience from my life. I was able to learn a dense amount of physics and the department offered significant amounts of help to ensure my success and understanding. Studying with other students in the program was vital and the department encouraged it which further enhanced my experience. I started off a biology major, and when switching to physics the process was smooth and they encouraged me. They cared and simply wanted me, and other students to excel. After graduation I was able to assist with a summer-long adaptive optics project with Scott Severson with led me into an internship, then graduate school, then a job at Lockheed Martin. Then, within 3 years after graduation at SSU I landed a job at Lockheed Martin in Silicon Valley, then another at L3Harris in Santa Rosa - high-paying jobs that were vital to my independence in life and the work world. It would be a silly decision to cut the physics department, also seeing that SSU is located a short distance from Silicon Valley. I strongly advise against removing the physics program. Thank you.

As a graduate of Sonoma State University with my Bachelor of Arts in Physics, I strongly disagree
with the consideration that it is no longer in the best interest of the University to continue funding it.
I chose to complete my bachelor’s degree in Physics when I transferred from San Diego State University
as an Electrical Engineering major. The SSU Physics department was more than a refreshing change
because of its dedication to its students. It was my experience that the small, intimate program allowed
the professors to support students with the time and focus require to assist the learning that the
conceptual and mathematically demanding material requires.

As an Electrical Engineering major, I took the first semester of Engineering Physics at a community
college, with 30 students in the class. The professor didn’t have the luxury of time to host meaningful
office hours, and the lab classes were not helpful in learning the concepts or mathematical applications
at all. When I transferred to San Diego State University as an Electrical Engineering major, I finished the
STEM physics core in even bigger classes. The professors had no time to answer questions, so graduate
students were tasked with trying to keep up with the constant requests for clarification to the ubiquitous
concerns of frustrated students.

It was this experience that led me to transfer to Sonoma State, and change my major to Physics. I
earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physics and worked in electronics and various other professions. My
career goal was to teach Physics and Astronomy at a small California Community College. My Bachelor of
Arts degree from Sonoma State was a wonderfully supportive and enriching experience. Many years
later, I enrolled in CSU Fresno, and finished my Master of Science in Physics.

I was hired by Reedley College to teach Physics and Astronomy to the young adult children of
agricultural workers, many of whom were immigrants from diverse countries escaping poverty and
political persecution. It was a privilege to teach them, and some of them have attained great success.
One of my students transferred into the Sonoma State Physics program, earning his Bachelor of Science
degree. He returned to the Central Valley, and is currently employed as a Laboratory Technician in a
Community College in Parlier. He loved his experience with the Physics Department at
Sonoma State, and his success as a lab technician is more evidence of the department’s merit.

Sonoma State was an incredible place to study physics. The professors were deeply concerned with the education and success of their individual students in a way that would not be possible at a larger university. The department fostered a tight-knit group of students and graduates as well as professors.
I worked on a project alongside numerous other SSU students to develop a satellite that was ultimately sent to space. That experience enabled me (along with another SSU student) to get a national internship immediately post-graduation. Thanks to the connections I made with students and faculty during my time at Sonoma, I have received multiple opportunities that have enabled me to have a fulfilling career in the science and tech sector.
This past year, I matriculated to MIT, where I am pursuing a dual-degree MBA and nuclear science engineering masters. I have no illusions that I would have been accepted into this program without the individualized attention I received while at SSU, the opportunities that followed as a direct result, and a recommendation letter from a current faculty member of the Sonoma State Physics Department provided nearly ten years after my graduation! This is what the Sonoma State University Physics Department offers: an incredible education and a lifelong connection to the students and faculty of this fantastic department.
Please don’t prevent future generations from having the same opportunities I did. Save Sonoma Physics!

The American Association of University Women sponsors a statewide, week-long residential STEM camp for middle school girls during the summer between their 7th and 8th grades
https://www.aauw-ca.org/tech-trek/
As a career astrophysicist, and Tech Trek volunteer, I teach several astronomy workshops on the SSU campus and am now in charge of organizing our annual Astronomy Nights. At Sonoma State, 90 girls participate in Tech Trek each year, and have for the past ~20 years. The Physics and Astronomy Department plays an integral role in Tech Trek at SSU. Each year, on the Wednesday evening of Tech Trek, we hold an Astronomy Night. On Astronomy Night, we feature a speaker, often from faculty in the Physics and Astronomy Department. Prof. Lynn Cominsky spoke at the 2024 Tech Trek, Wes Farriss spoke at the 2023 Tech Trek. The second portion of Astronomy Night is when the entire camp goes out to the SSU track, where the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Sonoma State University provides their Observatory, with
its larger aperture telescopes. Tom Targett and Wes Farriss of the Physics and Astronomy Department have been providing the Tech Trek camp at SSU access to this wonderful resource. Many of our girls are encouraged and inspired to pursue careers in STEM fields as a result of their attendance at Tech Trek at SSU, and, of course, would inevitably be some of the future students of the Physics and Astronomy Department. The Department of Physics and Astronomy also puts on Public Observing Nights at their Observatory facility each month. This event provides an excellent introduction to science and astronomy to the general public and to young children who attend this event.

The main import of this testimonial is to emphasize the much wider role the Physics and Astronomy Department plays in the life of Sonoma County and, in fact, statewide, for engaging the public in science and inspiring the next generation to pursue productive careers in STEM fields.

I have taught astronomy full time at SRJC for the past 15 years. So many of our best and brightest students have family responsibilities and financial realities that make it impossible for them to leave the area to continue their educations. When majors are cut at SSU, it doesn't mean that all potential students in those majors can simply go elsewhere. For many it means that they will have to study something else. Their futures will be limited to narrow range of majors offered at this more austere version of SSU. In the case of physics, this means that we are setting ourselves up for a future brain drain in Sonoma County in which those with the means will leave, and those without will not be able to attain the skills needed to confront the challenges posed by climate change in the coming decades. I already have multiple students telling me right now that they were planning to transfer to SSU, but now will go somewhere else because they wish to study physics. Preserving physics and as many other major programs as possible is absolutely essential to ensuring the long-term survival of SSU and the strength of our own community.

I am writing to express my deep concern over the potential discontinuation of the physics bachelor's degree program at Sonoma State University. As a proud graduate, I can personally attest to the profound impact this program has had—not only on my education and career but also on my ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Physics is not just an academic discipline; it is the foundation of innovation, technological advancement, and scientific discovery. The skills I developed through my coursework—problem-solving, analytical thinking, and quantitative reasoning—have been invaluable in my professional life. More than that, they have allowed me to approach challenges with curiosity and resilience, a mindset that is crucial in today's rapidly evolving world.

Eliminating this program would not only be a loss for students who seek to pursue careers in STEM but also a detriment to the university’s reputation as an institution that fosters intellectual curiosity and academic excellence. Universities should be expanding opportunities in science and technology, not cutting them. Future generations of students deserve access to the same transformative education that I received.

The Sonoma State Physics and Astronomy department has created an environment like no other physics department at other Universities. The way the professors engage and support students as well as the students united together creates a family that lasts a lifetime.

I already feel that my physics classmates and professors are like family to me, even though I've only been here since last semester (fall 2024) from transferred from Las Positas College in Livermore, CA. I first met Dr. Scott Severson before I transferred and he was so friendly to my mom and I and gave me a big picture on how life at Sonoma State is as a physics major. He said that although the department is small, we're all close and support each other, and that is exactly how the department is.

Before I became a student at Sonoma State, I came across Lynn Cominsky's EdEon STEM Learning as they were searching for new student employees. I ended up reaching out to Laura Peticolas and Dr. Cominsky, letting them know that I was interested in working for EdEon and they were so welcoming and were allowing me to try anything I put my mind to. Within a span of three months, I learned a new coding language, I put together circuits for their Learning by Making curriculum, I got to strengthen my Python skills to crop images of the Moon for their Eclipse Mega Movie, I got to learn how to solder, and most importantly, I got to learn how to operate a ground station by working on the 3Ucubed project. 3Ucubed is a Cubesat project through NASA's IMAP collaboration including Sonoma State, University of New Hampshire, and Howard University STEM students to build, operate, and launch a Cubesat to collect scientific data on electron precipitation in the aurora cusps. I was able to develop coding and engineering experience through EdEon, these skills have helped me get internships and expanded on my knowledge of physics.

During my first day at Sonoma State, my physics classes started off with all the physics students laughing and making jokes on the very first day of modern physics and mathematical physics. It was as if all the physics students knew each other and I never felt so comfortable being myself and being loud in a class room ever in my life, until I stepped into the modern physics and mathematical physics classroom. I've made so many friends from these physics classes right off the bat, and we all study together and support each other through our mistakes and achievements. Dr. Hongtao Shi was the main professor who kept me motivated and would stay at work an hour longer almost everyday to help me on questions I had in both modern physics and mathematical physics. Without Dr. Shi, I wouldn't have been able to achieve a high GPA and a well understanding of modern physics that I have today.

Dr. Alexandra Miller gave physics students at Sonoma State the opportunity to get involved in high energy physics research experience through her GROWTH-MSI program also ran by a Stanislaus physics professor Dr. Wing To. Through her, I got the chance to participate in this program and learn about particle physics, which is what I've been wanted to study in grad school after achieving my Bachelors of science in physics degree here at Sonoma State. Because of Dr. Miller, I got a jump start on understand why conservation laws obey certain symmetries and why certain standard model particles decay into other particles. After seeing Dr. Miller's work ethic, I've been inspired to work as hard as she does.


My life changed exponentially because of all the students and professors at Sonoma State that make up the Physics and Astronomy Department. Graduates from this program at Sonoma State have gone off to be CEOs, achieve Ph.Ds, and work in well known research facilities. Keeping the physics and astronomy department at Sonoma State benefits both education for STEM majors and the future for our community by allowing physics graduates to go off and accomplish discoveries, innovations, and research methods for our community as a whole.

I am tenured faculty in astrophysics at the City College of New York, and I had the pleasure of presenting for the "What Physicists Do" seminar series in October 2020. This was one of the first times I was asked to speak beyond research to my more interdisciplinary science projects, and I was thrilled to discuss my experience with "AstroFashion" and STARtorialist. It was very validating and fulfilling to share this project as part of such a diverse and long-running seminar series, which as far as I know is unique in the physics community. I only wish I had access to this seminar series when I was an undergraduate student, and I applaud SSU Physics & Astronomy for providing this phenomenal outlet and resource for the community.

The need for affordable access to quality, science-focused degree programs in Northern California is critical. SSU’s Dept of Physics and Astronomy provides a strong, foundational program that can springboard into careers and/or continuing education in science research, academia and engineering.

While still completing my BS Physics in 1997, I began an internship with a local telecommunications company that resulted in full-time employment immediately after graduation that year. I continued to work as a Hardware Engineer in the telecommunications field until I left the workforce and started my family.

Where is the Diversity of programs at SSU if a foundational science based programing is lost? How will fact-based and science-based critical thinking be developed in students if only subjective, liberal arts programs remain?

What of Equity for women in science if there are no such degree programs offered in schools in their community?

Can the campus of SSU claim to be Inclusive of all students if it lacks a balance of science forward programs?

Your community of students must reflect diversity of skills and interests, not just single thought programs. College bound students from Northern California high schools must have equal opportunity access to degrees in the hard sciences.

Northern California is a beautiful region of the state that is strikingly different from Southern California’s cities and communities. Where else can students seek and attain a foundational, quality, science based education if not at SSU? Cal Poly? Too impacted. UC Davis? Does the CSU system not want to attract STEM students?

Please reverse the decision and save the Physics & Astronomy degree programs at Sonoma State.

I graduated from Sonoma State University in 1978 with a BA in Physics and a minor in Astronomy. My only other attempt at a higher level degree was getting ~half way through the University of New Mexico MBA program in the mid-80's. So to be clear, although I only had a BA degree it proved sufficient for me to have a pretty fantastic career. Here are some of the highlights:
-A 21 year career with Motorola that included participation in component development and production (bandpass filters for transmit and receive functions) for Motorola's initial dominance of the cell phone market. My career advanced from engineer to engineering manager and director, and concluded with a role as Vice President of Engineering, Quality and Supply Chain for our $1B Energy Systems Division. Since leaving Motorola, I have consulted in battery technologies for ~10 years and then founded my current company, Polaris Laboratories, LLC (www.polarisbatterylabs.com), in 2012. Polaris is one of the only commercial battery R&D labs in the world and our clients include start up's, large chemical companies and OEM's interested in assessing and bringing to market new battery advances, Our lab has experience with all of the current lithium ion battery chemistries as well as next generation materials for consumer, electric vehicle, grid storage and drone applications.

In college, it was clear that in order for me to have any chance in a technical field that I would need a degree that would provide enough technical knowledge to be able to go into many different areas. For me, Sonoma States' Physics program was a perfect match and i have been able to realize a great career in technical fields that have been challenging and immensely satisfying. It's hard to imagine but the SSU Physics/astronomy degree was actually s key enabling program.

I urge you to reconsider your stance on keeping these science degree programs alive at Sonoma State. As an employer, I need physics, engineering and business managers and i don't think eliminating technical programs is going the right way.

If you would like to talk further about my experiences at SSU or any topics from above, I am happy to talk directly. You can reach me at 678 591-1171 or at dmorris@polarisbatterylabs.com

Doug Morris

One last very important note.My minor in astronomy became a real hobby for me and my kids. My 10" Meade telescope was used often when we lived in New Mexico and my kids were ~10 years old. My daughter was particularly interested and we spent a lot of time together star gazing (and seeing solar eclipses together) as she grew up. Rita finalized her Master's degree in Optics several years ago from the University of Arizona and is currently working at the Keck Telescope on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. She's an operator and has been working with scientists on every imaginable topic you can dream of. So just consider that in the grand scheme of things your physics program influenced two scientists in incredibly productive ways. Seems worth hanging onto the program doesn't it?

The level of educational advancement and outreach facilitated by SSU Physics and its faculty cannot be understated, and I’m proud and thankful of every teacher and mentor I had while I was there. While I first became a student at SSU in 2019, the beginning of my experience with SSU began in the Fall of 2015. I was a community college student at the time and Dr. Lynn Cominsky was the head of the physics department at the time. I had been advised to talk to her and ask her for something to work on. Communication was difficult for me due to my being autistic. Dr. Cominsky assured me that was not a problem and set me up with a project tracking potential asteroids suspected by the International Astronomical Union Minor Planet Center, which I did for the 2015/2016 school year. This was the start of a years-long partnership, assisting in the testing of experiments for their Learning by Making curriculum development program, and the development of EdgeCube, SSU’s second cube satellite.

As an undergraduate student at SSU, I had the honor of being the first ever student from the campus to become a Cal-Bridge Scholar, being awarded a scholarship in no small part thanks to the work I was able to do with the physics program. I saw the rise of community centers such as the Maker Space, made possible by Dr. Cominsky. I was honored to be someone who inspired Dr. Cominsky to start yet another mentorship program. Seeing there were autistic students with strong math skills and interests in STEM careers, she enabled SSU to launch the program NASA’s Neurodiversity Network, or N3. This program has created a network of people across the country who identify neurodivergent students with the skills to benefit from being provided with STEM research opportunities. N3’s team mentors yet more mentors to work with these students, providing STEM educators and researchers an opportunity to engage with the neurodiverse community, and neurodiverse students continue to grow their knowledge and passion for STEM.

When I started my PhD program at the University of California at Irvine, I wanted to support other neurodivergent students and quickly helped create a neurodiversity support group. By the end of my first year, I had been awarded the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship for my proposed research. In my proposal, my two long-term goals, the improvement of materials used in solar cell devices, and providing educational outreach to local communities surrounding solar energy and space sciences devices, were both inspired by Dr. Cominsky and my time on the EdgeCube research project. And it was thanks to the team at the SSU physics department that I was able to host an outreach event of my very own for the “Science-Based Sonoma County Home Educators” group. Something I learned from one of my first internship experiences with Dr. Cominsky was to create hands-on learning experiences for students. Dr. Cominsky provides for many hands-on learning experiences for students, by teaching teachers to provide those activities to their students, through the many programs she has started. Following her example, I created a hands-on project so the students could build model cube satellites, while learning about their applications for a multi-sensory learning experience.

SSU has not just been a place where I’ve found mentors, but a place where people become mentors on their way to learn physics. Many of my SSU undergraduate peers and I not only have been provided with the experience to get where we are now, but also have been put in a position to help mentor others for years to come. I will always be grateful for everything this department has done for me, who it helped me become, and will continue to pay it forward through mentoring others in the future.

Years before, my senior year at high school during the spring of 2020 had been upended by certain events, and along with many other people, my graduation was wiped out and initial plans for college were destroyed. After over a year of turmoil, I had settled on a new roadmap to go forwards which rested upon what Sonoma State’s Physics and Astronomy Department had to offer, and I became a transfer student here to pursue an Astrophysics B.S. in the fall of 2023. Once I arrived, I was welcomed into a department with faculty, fellow classmates, coworkers, and off-campus partners of the department who have helped me sharpen my goals for the future and the skills required to pursue them, which has allowed me to continue more firmly reconstructing what I lost due to the pandemic.

For years I have been working in EdEon, a STEM learning center at Sonoma State funded entirely through outside grants, a portion of which incidentally is paid into the campus budget. For over a decade EdEon has been successfully supplying resources for STEM education in many rural high schools across both California and Texas via the Learning by Making (LbyM) program in partnership with other institutions, and scarcely a year ago as a result of this accomplishment, it received nearly $8 million from the US Department of Education to further expand that program into STEMACES to serve at least forty high schools in both states. But despite these achievements, among so many others including two cross-country campaigns to image and analyze total solar eclipses, the employment for at least two people strongly contributing to the successes of EdEon have been endangered by these cuts, harming them, EdEon as a whole, and everyone who could be served by these programs.

A year ago, I was one of the students working together in our astronomical imaging class to use the Shane telescope at Lick Observatory, where we contributed to gathering data for published scientific research. Following that, I was fortunate enough to take part in the STARs program and engage in my own independent research using the Nickel telescope at the same facility following certification as an approved user, an opportunity to utilize a premiere astronomical observatory which has been a hugely transformative experience for me. Many people both on- and off-campus have worked to help set up the infrastructure to make that happen, and it was my personal hope that there would be many future Sonoma State physics students who would also gain the opportunity to engage in their own research and astronomical imaging projects using the facilities at Lick, perhaps something which could entice potential physics and astronomy students to Sonoma State.

Speaking personally, I am lucky enough to have enough weight in units to (ideally) graduate with my bachelor’s at the end of this semester. The same however can’t be said for what was to be the largest class of freshman entering physics at Sonoma State in many years, a promising sign of growth for a department which has generally functioned smoothly and effectively despite years of upheaval for the campus.

Sonoma State is already experiencing a crisis of low enrollment. When these new students, now experiencing their own educational turmoil, are forced to transfer to other universities still offering physics (and other) degree programs to complete their education, who will replace them? When prospective future students simply bypass Sonoma State for those universities, who will in turn replace them?

I hope that this decision is reconsidered.

I worked in and with the Department of Physics at Sonoma State for more than a decade. For the first three years, I was a temporary visiting professor in the department. I taught a variety of physics and astronomy courses for both physics majors and non-majors. Then, for another ten years, I worked in the NASA Education and Public Outreach Group (NASA EPO), now called EdEon created by Professor Cominsky. In my roles as professor and Education Scientist I had an opportunity to develop a deep appreciation for the department and its students and faculty.

It would be a grave mistake for the university to discontinue the physics major. First and foremost this is because the department turns out graduates that go on to fill vital workforce needs for the State of California. They become scientists and engineers, certainly, but many also become teachers or journalists, fields for which people with a strong technical training are in desperately short supply. The absolute number of students who obtain a physics degree is small, it is true, but this is a common situation at many universities. The small numbers belie the fact that training in physics often provides a good basis for a successful career in many diverse fields. Because of the strong analytical skills training in physics develops, and because physics is the basis of most other scientific and technical fields, it can often be transferred to other disciplines with relative ease. And while the Physics Department creates graduates who go out and contribute in many different ways, the physics major at SSU has one unique and far-reaching benefit that should not be overlooked: the EdEon program.

I began working with Professor Cominsky in her education group the very first year I was hired onto the faculty. At first I was only there part time, with my primary contribution happening over the summers when I was not teaching. After three years I switched to working with The Group full time. In my position at the EPO Group I worked on many projects. These included running the group’s robotic observatory, developing new curricular materials in science and math education and creating professional development programs for teachers and other educators.

In all my projects at EPO I had vital assistance from physics majors. They worked in The Group as assistants, programmers, web-developers, educational material testers, circuit designers and builders and so on. Their help was absolutely essential to the work of The Group. We had only a few full-time professional scientists and staff, so the students who worked with us allowed us to greatly increase the number and scale of the projects we could complete. And we were quite productive, creating educational materials and programs that radiated out to affect students and teachers all across Sonoma County, the State of California, and the United States; the group has even had impacts in some foreign countries. Without the work done by the many physics majors we employed over the years - and that the EdEon Group still employs - it simply would not have been possible to achieve the success we had with our products and programs.

I am deeply concerned that if the physics major goes away, then the EdEon Group will not be able to continue its work either. Most students on campus do not have the required set of background knowledge and skills needed for the projects undertaken by the EdEon Group, but the physics students do. Please reconsider the decision to terminate the physics major at SSU.

Dr. Kevin McLin
starwerk.net

SSU Physics and Astronomy is an excellent resource. Graduates are engineers and scientists working in our community. The Department has helped create Computer Science, Engineering Technology, and NASA EPO education programs.
Physics is a qualifier for Bachelor of Science in Geology. Chemistry and Biology, needed for entry into medical school or doctorate. If there is no accreditation or programs why would students go to SSU?

Astronomy has brought in the most grants to SSU and has had so many talented students who practice and advance science and engineering.

We have graphs of successful student outcomes and career choices, if you like to know that sort of information, you need students with math and science skills to learn Physics. no Science, Athletics Art, will lower enrollment please save science at SSU.

The Physics and Astronomy Department at Sonoma State University played a pivotal role in my education and career path. The department offered small classes and interaction with faculty that wouldn't be possible in a larger college. I was able to earn a B.S. in Physics (with minors in astronomy and math) while working part-time and while being a commuter student. Other colleges that offered this degree would have required me to move out of the area -- which wasn't an option at the time.

In addition to studying physics and astronomy at SSU, I became involved with the Society of Physics Students (SPS), performed observations at SSU's observatory, worked as a grader for several professors, and connected with many faculty and students. I remember the excitement of touring the Stanford Linear Accelerator (SLAC) on an SPS field trip with Professor Joe Tenn. All of these experiences increased my interest in physics and astronomy education that is still present today.

After graduating from SSU with my physics degree, I entered the teaching credential program and became a high school science and math teacher in California and Oregon. I built upon my education at SSU by later earning a M.S. in Astronomy and an M.S. in Chemical & Life Sciences. After 13 years of high school teaching, I became a full-time community college instructor at Portland Community College in Portland, Oregon. I teach physics, astronomy, and general science -- all thanks to my foundation at SSU.

It is a shame that the college wants to remove physics as a major. Many students before and after me have benefited from their education in physics and astronomy at SSU. Many teachers, college instructors, engineers, and other professionals have the physics major as their foundation. Without it, I'm not sure I would have had such a rewarding 27 year career in physics and astronomy education. Please save the physics major!

As chair of the Department of Physics & Astronomy at a sister campus of the CSU, I was shocked and disheartened to see that SSU was planning on eliminating the Physics degree as part of the budget reduction efforts. Having served on University budget committees during times of severe reductions, I understand the necessity of making difficult decisions. However, the proposal to eliminate the Physics program is both short sighted and does little to offset either the current budget deficit or the additional planned reductions.

As Physics service courses will still be needed to support the remaining curriculum, eliminating the courses associated with the major will generate little savings. Likewise, without a Physics degree there is little incentive or support for the SSU faculty to generate external funds through grants and contracts. Lastly, Physics is the foundation upon which all other sciences are built, and to be a true liberal arts institution, there must be a pathway for students to be able to explore that foundation. As can be seen in the many other testimonials, students have been served well by the SSU Physics department. They offer a high quality program that has clearly prepared their graduates for successful careers. It is shameful to eliminate such a valuable resource to the students of SSU and the greater community.

The SSU Physics and Astronomy department offers a unique collegial environment far different than that found in a ‘traditional’ leading-edge scientific university. For those students who don’t fit the into the standard ‘STEM’ mold, due to race, gender, ideology, wealth, privilege, neurodivergence of all types, the Sonoma State Physics Department offers them a sanctuary to grow and learn how to be successful both at their chosen careers and personal development.

For myself, SSU was one of only a couple choices for me, but it was the best choice. I didn’t have a particularly strong academic background, nor the finances to make-up for that deficit. At SSU I was able to study physics while singing in the choir, taking dance classes, and learning judo. The unique mix of small class sizes, diverse backgrounds of students and professors, as well as the welcoming inclusivity of the SSU campus, makes for a dynamite combination perfect for those students who don’t find a place in more main-stream university setting. Sonoma State physics represented a bridge between scientific study, creative expression, and self-realization, that wasn’t possible anywhere else.

Studying physics, to the level required to attain a 4 year degree, should be a fundamental staple of any university irrespective of its self-identification as a ‘STEM’ or ‘Liberal Arts’ focused institution. I say this because learning physics is the art of learning how to problem solve, how to never give up, how to look at the impossible and break it down into understandable parts, and how to bring multiple seemingly unrelated ideas together to form new and exciting possibilities. Those are skills every institution should strive to instill in their graduates, because they are what create the brightest future for everyone.

I’m a career research scientist at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. I work as part of a diverse multi-disciplinary team of dedicated scientists developing nuclear radiation detector monitoring safeguards focused on non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear technologies. I am proud to add my voice to the many fighting for the continuation of this department.

Between 1997 and 2003 I coordinated the Hands-On Universe program, based at U.C. Berkeley. It was a collaborative endeavor involving UCB Space Sciences Lab, Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, the Lawrence Hall of Science, and international partners.. The mission was curriculum development and grade 6 - 12 science teacher professional development programs.

On numerous occasions, program participants collaborated with the Sonoma State University physics department. This proved beneficial for Sonoma County high school teachers as well as academic researchers from the Third International Math and Science Study (TIMSS), in its evaluation of the efficacy of online, versus in-person, learning by science teachers. This was measured by improvements in student outcomes.

On numerous occasions, distinguished physicists and engineers were initially drawn to the SSU campus by the popular "What Physicists Do" lecture series - and then fruitful collaborations followed.

I was present for lectures and campus visits by Nobel laureates Saul Perlmutter and George Smoot, as well as Supernova Cosmology Project scientists Gerson Goldhaber and Hewlett Packard / LumiLEDs materials scientist William Imler. This outreach in turn led to jobs for SSU physics students in Berkeley and Silicon Valley.

In its early years, Sonoma State University was derided as "Granola U" - a second-tier state college. During its past three decades, however, innovative programs based in the Physics Department have propelled SSU into the ranks of internationally-acclaimed universities.

Eliminating the Physics Department as a means of saving money would be a false economy. The cost of supporting a few faculty to continue to offer physics baccalaureate degrees is well worth the investment. Preserving the physics department will aid SSU in maintaining its good reputation.

I am a proud graduate of Sonoma State University’s Physics and Astronomy program, earning my B.S. in Physics in 2013. When I first arrived at SSU, I had no clear direction for my future. That changed when I took Astronomy 101—a class that ignited a deep curiosity about the universe and ultimately led me to pursue physics. The wonders of the cosmos fueled my passion for understanding how things work, driving me to immerse myself in the program. Through this journey, I had the privilege of learning from dedicated faculty who not only equipped students with essential technical skills but also fostered the critical thinking necessary for success in today's world.

Though physics was an incredibly challenging field, the faculty at SSU was dedicated to student success. They didn’t just teach formulas and equations; they prioritized understanding. They emphasized the importance of conceptualizing problems, thinking critically, and applying knowledge to find solutions. This way of thinking extended beyond the classroom. It became a foundational skill in my career. It helped me develop a tendency to analyze complex problems, break them down into manageable pieces, and construct solutions with confidence. The problem-solving mindset I developed at SSU has been instrumental in my professional growth.

The program provided me with highly relevant technical skills, including mathematics, programming, and modern technological tools—foundational competencies in today’s technology-driven workforce. More than just teaching these skills, the program emphasized their real-world application, using them to analyze and solve complex problems related to the physical phenomena that shape our universe. While these technical abilities were invaluable for building a successful career, the most impactful lesson I gained was the ability to think critically. Through rigorous coursework and the guidance of dedicated faculty, I learned how to break down problems, approach challenges analytically, and develop solutions—an essential skill not only in my professional life but in everyday decision-making.

Eliminating the Physics and Astronomy program would mean removing a gateway to curiosity and discovery for future students like me—students who may not yet know their passion but could find it in the stars, just as I did. This program cultivates critical thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators, and its impact extends far beyond the classroom. I strongly urge the CSU system to preserve this invaluable program.

I transferred into the SSU Physics department in Spring 1992, 5 years after having left the University of Michigan due to mounting costs as an out of state student. Realistically, where else could I have finished my degree in 2.5 years and get an excellent grounding in physics, publish as a second author a paper in a presitigious journal with Professor Cominsky, and get into grad school at Stanford which during my time there was ranked as the top physics graduate program in the world? One of my clearest memories at Stanford is a meeting with my fellow incoming graduate students where we said where we had done our undergraduate work, and having the other students who had gone to all the usual top ivy league schools go "what, where?" when I said Sonoma State University. After 30 years as a research astrophysicist, including the Ph.D. program at Stanford, 5 years as a postdoc at McGill, and 10 years as a professor at Ithaca College and New York University Abu Dhabi, I still hold that SSU provided me with better preparation for being a research scientist than many students receive at much more prestigious universities. Physics is THE foundational science. In a world where all of modern society is predominantly shaped by the outcomes of scientific research, especially of physics (eg. computers, internet, wifi, tmobile phones etc. etc. etc. only exist due to physics research) how can a University which provides a key pathway for non-traditional students to become scientists drop a program that literally teaches the basis of everything?

Honorable California State University Board of Trustees Members -

Public Comment Remarks for delivery during Tuesday/28 January 2025 Board Meeting:

Tim Smith, Former Mayor of Rohnert Park, Former SSU faculty member, Father of SSU graduate, and SSU Nichols Legacy Society estate planning donor. Philosophy and Physics are at the traditional core of higher education, providing the foundation for all modern universities. Without these disciplines as degree granting departments Sonoma State University should simply consider itself a trade school; it would no longer be a university. Only advantage of this Chancellor chosen course of action would be strictly a personal financial one; SSU will no longer be among recipients of my charitable contributions. Thank you for your kind attention.

Tim Smith
Rohnert Park, CA

I first became involved with Sonoma State University, Physics and Astronomy Department and Lynn Cominsky in 2008. https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/ssu-offers-high-school-students-chance-to-launch-their-own-craft-in-nevada/?ref=related This was the beginning of a long 18 year STEM outreach to teachers, parents and students around the bay area. This was accomplished by many NASA grants. We as parents and teachers are constantly trying to ignite that spark in the young people we come across. Some of the programs we've done are Small Satellites for Secondary Students (s4) https://s4.sonoma.edu/ This program is still ongoing at Piner High School. The Rising Data program (NASA) https://edeon.sonoma.edu/#about was aimed at students in grades 5-14 to pursue STEM careers. The current program is NASA's Neurodiversity Network (N3) https://n3.sonoma.edu/ . I've had the honor to help introduce STEM subjects to hundreds if not thousands of kids/young adults through Sonoma State's Physics and Astronomy Departments. It's unknown how many of these students have become Astronauts, teachers, Aerospace, Mechanical or Electrical engineers or or or! We do know that with out SSU Physics and Astronomy department there will be fewer kids and young adults to be introduced to the STEM opportunities that exist.

I graduated with a BS in Physics in 2014 from SSU. Subsequently, I attended Stanford and earned an MS, and am currently a senior data scientist at UCSF. This program taught me how to think analytically and solve problems, which set the foundation for my success.

Additionally, I was a first-generation college student from Sonoma County. College was very foreign to me and my parent, and a local option eased my concerns about the financial risk. Without SSU's department of physics and astronomy, I would have never gone to college.

The Physics and Astronomy program at Sonoma State University (SSU) has played a transformative role in my education, career, and contributions to society. As a graduate of the program, I have directly benefited from the high-quality education, hands-on research opportunities, and dedicated faculty that SSU provides.

My degree in Physics and Astronomy opened doors to impactful work in both science and public service. Early in my career, I collaborated with NASA, contributing to the launch of three research satellites and training over 10,000 high school teachers in innovative methods for teaching national math and science standards. Later, I applied the critical thinking and problem-solving skills I developed at SSU to address some of California’s most pressing challenges, including homelessness and community mental health treatment.

The real-world applications of a strong physics and astronomy education extend far beyond academia. The program at SSU has prepared countless students for careers in science, engineering, education, and technology—fields that are essential to California’s economy and innovation leadership. Cutting this program would not only limit future students’ opportunities but would also be a loss for the industries and communities that depend on a well-educated, STEM-focused workforce.

The Physics and Astronomy program at SSU is not just about equations and experiments—it is about building the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators. It is essential that this program remains a priority so that future students can benefit from the same education that helped shape my career and my ability to give back to society.

I urge decision-makers to recognize the immense value of this program and ensure its continued presence at SSU. The students, the state, and the future of scientific progress depend on it.

Sincerely,

Tim Graves
SSU Graduate 2001

My journey to the physics side of the force began with meeting with Dr. Jeremy Qualls back in 2015 and discussing the program with him. He was supportive and thought I would be a good candidate. For a while, I thought about it and really wanted to create a positive change in my life. I made the plunge and took the risk of going back to university after a lapse of 20 years. I am so glad that I did. I found the problem solving aspect and critical thinking and rigorous application of the scientific method. I use the acquired skills every day in all aspects of my life.

I am paying it forward working with Drs. Laura Peticolas and Lynn Cominsky's department of Edeon STEM Learning at SSU. Our mission is simple: Bring STEM curriculum to 8th and 9th graders and bring others to study and have careers in STEM.

I believe what I am doing now would not have been possible if it were not for the supportive staff and faculty such as Drs. Targett, Shi, Cominsky, and Severson. The physics program gives opportunity to students. I urge the decision makers not to make the short sighted decision to cut the program. It should be encouraged and supported so that others can have that same opportunity.

I am actually a Computer Science BS graduate. However one of the most rewarding and impactful projects I worked on was in collaboration with our physics department. The NASA Eclipse megamovie project was a massive benefit to my personal development, and has been influential to my life post-grad.

I joined Sonoma State at junior level. I had been attending UC Santa Barbara and found the large school overwhelming and impersonal. On arrival at Sonoma State, I was welcomed and cared for. The close interact with faculty was what I needed to thrive, and thrive I did. The education I received put me at a step above. I was surprised at how much more strongly prepared I was than other entering grad students when I went off to grad school. In particular, the foundation I received at Sonoma State in Electricity & Magnetism, Statistical Physics, and Quantum Mechanics was extremely solid. I went on to research High Energy Particle Physics for my graduate work at UC Santa Cruz. I am now a tenured faculty teaching physics at West Valley College. The education and support I received then are now the education and support I am giving to another generation of students. I am very happy with where I am in life. I am not sure I would have made it here if not for the strong encouragement and powerful education I received while at Sonoma State.

Stanford Graduate, Faculty Aeronautics and Astronautics 1993-2008.

Worked with Dr. Cominsky on several Stem projects.

Eliminating a degree program is a BAD idea. Especially in physics because that is the important background for many future careers. You have one of the foremost professors with Dr. Cominsky.

If you want to be a second rate community college and lose Dr. Cominsky, then go

My wife Teresa and I received the very disturbing news that the SSU Physics Dept is planned to be defunded. We believe this would be a tragic mistake and fervently hope that you will reconsider. The SSU Physics Dept quite literally changed the course of both our lives and gave us opportunities that I couldn't imagine in my wildest fantasies. (Okay, perhaps not my wildest fantasies as I never got to actually pilot a star ship…)

We both started in other majors but happened to decide to take one astronomy course together which completely changed our lives' direction. That astronomy course led us to changing our majors to Physics and eventually to long, fulfilling careers for each of us – me in the field of solar astronomy while Teresa mostly focused on Earth- & Space-based astronomical instrumentation. It is also quite astonishing to us how many of our classmates also ended up working professionally in the field. Those associations started at SSU proved very important to all of us through our careers and we still remain in contact with several of them.

It pains us to think that such opportunities may disappear for future students. The 21st century will demand ever more high technology literate workers.

Respectfully,
Claude & Teresa Plymate

I chose SSU Physics & Astronomy because it offered an excellent education with a great faculty and a department dedicated to my academic success. Joe Tenn, Sam Greene, Gordon Spear, John Dunning and Saeid Rahimi are several of the outstanding professors I took courses from. My degree in Physics prepared me well for service in the USMC as an Air Defense Control Officer during the Persian gulf conflict. And for the last 35 years, it contributed to a rewarding career in Pharmaceuticals. As a first-in-family university graduate, SSU Physics & Astronomy led to my lifelong professional and personal achievement.

My name is Kurt Kruger. I am the STEM coordinator/Instructor/SPARQ Center Director at Piner High School in Santa Rosa. Piner High School is a STEM school as we encourage our students to participate in the STEM fields. We have a STEM certificate program for our students and we are, in cooperation with SSU, encouraging our students to attend our local SSU including the Physics and Astronomy Department for their 4-year education. The default for our kids is the SRJC and many never make it past a two year degree due to a lack of a more affordable and local option for a 4-year degree. We are a Title 1 school so a local, more affordable option for our kids is imperative. SSU provides that for our kids. Without the Physics and Astronomy option at SSU our kids are less likely to pursue this important avenue into the STEM world. How can we encourage our young men and women to enter the STEM workforce when we keep narrowing options for those who are financially restricted? The ability to live at home and attend a university that support STEM/Physics is their only option. Please do not take that away from them.

Each year for the past decade we have had SSU come speak to our students about STEM fields including Physics/Engineering/Nursing/Biological Science fields. We take a bus load of our interested students to tour SSU including all the above departments. It inspires students who would not go to a 4-year program to pursue their local option at SSU.

On a personal note, I am a SSU Teaching Credential program graduate. Both my son and daughter (both went to Piner) entered the STEM world through SSU as they are both RN's. My son getting this Bachelors through SSU and my daughter graduating from SSU with her RN. Even for our middle class family, SSU has been an invaluable resource. Taking Physics/Astronomy away from SSU will limit anyone wishing to enter the STEM fields. Please do not take this away from my students looking to enter the world of Physics/Astronomy/STEM. This is about equity. My young students deserve SSU's resource as an affordable and local Physics/STEM school.

Respectfully,

Kurt Kruger
Piner High School
STEM Coordinator
SPARQ center Director

Sonoma State University offers an education in physics that's unlike what you can find almost anywhere else. With small class sizes and access to professors that's unheard of in the physics departments at larger universities, Sonoma State's courses have offered those of us who've gone through their program a level of autonomy and ownership over our own education that's proved invaluable to me and others in our ongoing STEM careers.

Furthermore, SSU Physics consistently punches above it's weight class in terms of the projects carried about by faculty and students alike. The CSU system would be wise to think carefully about letting a program that has so consistently over-performed for its students slip away. Because once it's gone, it's too late to realize what we've lost.