For seven years, Heather Johnson has been a pillar of care at the UCR Counseling Center as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and one of only two trauma specialists. She has supported many students through some of their most difficult moments.
But instead of honoring her dedication, UCR administration and CAPS management, Liz Mondragon and Jackie Rodriguez, have attempted to smear her name, revoke her license, and place her on indefinite leave this fall—simply for standing up for fair working conditions and participating in her union, UPTE. This is a cruel retaliation, and it’s wrong.
It’s time for UCR to do right by the people who care for our students.
Do right, UCR!
Stop union retaliation!
Add your signature.
We’re calling on UCR to:
Reinstate Heather Johnson immediately.
Respect the rights of union members to advocate for fair and safe workplaces.
Send a formal apology to Heather Johnson and her patients whose care was abruptly halted.
At a time when students face historic wait times for counseling and the Counseling Center struggles with severe understaffing, removing an experienced, compassionate clinician only hurts students and staff alike.
UCR claims to care about student mental health—but actions speak louder than words.
In just 18 months, the Counseling Center went from 12 full-time therapists down to nine, with staff reporting management and working conditions as their reasons for leaving.
Remaining staff report a toxic work environment and fear of retaliation for speaking up.
Students are left waiting weeks or months for appointments, with care delayed when it’s needed most.
Add your name in support of Heather Johnson and demand that UCR bring her back. Let’s build a campus where caregivers are valued and students get the mental health support they deserve.