The Session Will Provide an Opportunity for SMC Staff to Share Their Thoughts, Concerns, and Suggestions With College Administrators
Santa Monica College is reaching out to staff members for input on improving campus safety in the aftermath of a deadly workplace shooting that occurred on October 14. The college has scheduled a listening session for employees on Thursday, October 24, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in Orientation Hall, located in the Student Services Center on the main campus.
The session will provide an opportunity for SMC staff to share their thoughts, concerns, and suggestions with college administrators. According to an internal memo from SMC Superintendent/President Dr. Kathryn E. Jeffery, the feedback gathered at the session will help shape future safety protocols and training initiatives.
“We have all experienced grief, anxiety, and heartache in the wake of this tragic event,” the memo reads. “Your feedback will be crucial in identifying ways to strengthen the college’s safety environment.”
The initiative comes after the fatal shooting of Felicia Hudson, a 54-year-old Custodial Operations Manager, at SMC’s Center for Media & Design. The suspect, 39-year-old SMC custodian Davon Durell Dean, fled the scene and later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police chase. Authorities classified the incident as workplace violence.
Hudson, who had worked at the college for nearly three decades, was remembered for her dedication and leadership. In her honor, the Santa Monica College Foundation has established the Felicia Hudson Legacy Fund, which will continue her legacy of service to the community.
