Update on the Naming Advisory Committee Report and Recommendation

Dear campus community,

Earlier this year, I charged the university’s Naming Advisory Committee with reviewing whether the name of the César E. Chávez Building on our Tucson main campus should be retained or reconsidered. On May 29, the committee delivered a comprehensive report with its recommendation.

I am grateful to the members of the Naming Advisory Committee for their thoughtful and diligent work. The committee reviewed historical and institutional information, and sought and considered input from students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members. I also want to thank everyone who participated in listening sessions, submitted feedback, and shared their perspectives throughout this process.

After carefully reviewing the committee’s report and recommendation, I have decided that the César E. Chávez name will be removed from the building, signage, maps, and related materials by the end of this month. The building will instead be referred to by its previous name as the Economics building.

This decision takes into account the concerns raised through the review process and reflects my responsibility to ensure that the names of our facilities reflect the university’s mission and values.

Any future proposal regarding the naming for this or other buildings will be considered through the university’s established naming policy and processes, including appropriate opportunities for community input and consultation.

The University of Arizona is strongest when we engage difficult questions thoughtfully and in accordance with our values. I appreciate the care and commitment that so many members of our community brought to this important conversation.

Sincerely,
Suresh