Raghav Khanijow

Raghav stands outside, a lake and blooming trees behind him. He wears glasses, a tank top, and is holding a small bongo drum. He's looking directly at the camera and is giving a big smile.

Pronouns:

He/Him

Department:

Office for the Prevention of Harassment and Discrimination

How did you end up going into your current role or field and what do you enjoy most about the work you do?

In my professional career, whether working with juveniles on probation, as a crisis counselor, or facilitating community circles, my heart shines when I can serve individuals during their darkest moments. I decided to work in Title IX, where I can be an impactful member of a campus community, collaborate with partners, and contribute to a wraparound care philosophy for all. I enjoy providing supportive measures to those who need them and creating a safe container for everyone to express themselves creatively and narratively.

What do you enjoy most about being part of the Sonoma State community?

People at SSU want to hear ideas and are ready to jump in when there is one presented. Collectively, we have created some amazing initiatives and ways to support people. I have a huge appreciation for the partners who work with ideas for the community collaboratively. That is a beautiful thing during a time in SSU when people in power not of the community make lasting decisions for our community.

What do you find most fulfilling about working in higher education?

It is a little society of humans that are all experts in their area. If I need more information, I know there is someone on campus who is willing to share their gift of knowledge. Furthermore, I love managing the Peer Ambassadors I work with in helping them find their strengths and more. Lastly, I find it fulfilling to support students, faculty, and staff, during such a titular moment in America. In times of turmoil, I want to embody groundedness and human connection.

In what ways does your work make an impact on students, the campus or the broader campus community?

When I talk to an impacted individual, I provide space for that human rather than trying to fit them into a box. I do this by building supportive measures for impacted individuals based on their individual needs, giving them rights and options, facilitating healthy masculinity circles so that men can talk about how to be good role models, and managing our peer ambassadors effectively so we can have peers reach each other. Title IX can feel like a scary world, and I want to help move it toward a warmer process for all.