Support and Care for Our Community Amid Southern California Wildfires

January 8, 2025

Dear Pitzer Community,

I hope this message finds you all safe and well. As we watch the devastating wildfires unfold across Southern California, fueled by high winds and accompanied by widespread power outages, I write with a brief update and in support of those in our community who are experiencing the challenges and hardships these events have wrought.

The good news is that the Pitzer campus itself is in good shape. Damage from the high winds has been minimal and limited mostly to downed tree limbs. Our physical campus should be in good shape to welcome arriving students as they return from winter break.

Despite the relative safety of Claremont and the Colleges, many in our region and in our community have been less fortunate. Several have had to evacuate their homes, and some have had their homes and those of their family members directly impacted by the fires.

Human Resources is reaching out directly to employees who live in the affected areas, and Student Affairs is contacting students from impacted communities so that we can provide support to those who need it. Along these lines, the Gold Student Center is open to all Pitzer and Claremont College employees and their families who need a temporary landing spot or other support. For more information, please contact Human Resources at 909-621-8254.

More generally, if you or someone you know in our community is facing difficulties due to the fires or power outages, I urge you to reach out to Human Resources (employees) or Student Affairs (students) for assistance. I also encourage those who are able to do so to check in with friends, colleagues, and neighbors and offer your support where possible. Even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

To stay informed about local and regional conditions, evacuation orders, and resources, please monitor updates from official sources such as Cal Fire, local news outlets, and emergency services. TCCS will send out any emergency campus alerts as needed.

I am grateful for the care and compassion this community shows for itself and the wider world around us. Please take care of yourselves and each other.

Provida Futuri,

Strom C. Thacker
President