Response to Recommendation to Rename Chávez Hall
May 19, 2026
Dear Stony Brook Community,
The decision to name a campus space for an individual or an organization is a profound honor reflecting a meaningful connection between the namesake and Stony Brook University. It is a responsibility our university approaches with thoughtful deliberation and great care.
In light of the recent events surrounding the legacy of César Chávez, Stony Brook received numerous formal requests for César Chávez Hall to be renamed. Earlier this spring, I initiated Stony Brook’s Renaming Buildings, Structures and Spaces process to have a committee reflect on whether the name of Chávez Hall aligned with the values of our university and community.
On April 14, Judith Brown Clarke, vice president for equity and inclusion and chief health equity officer, convened a committee, composed of faculty, staff, and students from our West, East, and Southampton campuses, to review relevant materials.
When the committee met again on April 29 to consider these factors, the members voted unanimously to recommend the renaming of Chávez Hall. Earlier this month, I accepted their recommendation to rename the residence hall.
The next phase of this process is selecting a new name, which will begin with the new academic year this coming fall in order to allow for full participation. In early September, the university community will be invited to submit nominations for a new name that aligns with our values and mission.
Following this nomination period, the university community will have an opportunity to vote on a new name. The names with the most votes will come back to my team for further consideration. Once we decide on a name, I will bring that name to the Stony Brook Council for their consideration. If approved, it will be sent to the SUNY Board of Trustees for a final decision at one of its regularly scheduled meetings. For more information about the renaming process, please visit the Committee on Chávez Hall webpage.
I am proud to be a part of such an active and thoughtful university community as we engage in this significant renaming process. I extend my sincere appreciation to the committee members for their discernment in navigating this complex situation, and I encourage our entire community to remain engaged as this process continues in the fall.
Sincerely,
Andrea Goldsmith
President