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In a message to the University community, President Kaplan addressed the heinous tragedy that took place at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

May 25, 2022

Dear Members of the University Community,

It is difficult to put into words the incredible heartache and anger we are feeling as we attempt to process the heinous tragedy that took place at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. For many, this will resurface the anguish and sorrow we experienced nearly 10 years ago as a similar massacre occurred in nearby Newtown, Connecticut, at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Schools are created to be spaces where students can learn, grow, and, most importantly, be safe. Too often, we are seeing instances where this sacred contract has been broken. It is especially unsettling when children with so much potential and promise, and their selfless and passionate educators, are the innocent victims.

Amid our sorrow, let us maintain the hope we have that our alumni, faculty, and staff dedicating their lives to pursuing careers in law enforcement, public service, and mental health – an d our students who are preparing to make their own mark on the world – will help us as a society to transcend these senseless acts of violence and help prevent these tragedies from occurring.

I encourage each of us to seek the support of our University community as we grapple with the heartache and anger we are invariably experiencing. Students may contact the Dean of Students Office or Psychological and Counseling Services, while faculty and staff can seek support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Soon, the Division of Students Affairs will share plans for an upcoming Courageous Conversation Series event. This will be an opportunity for us to come together to share our sadness and show our grief for the victims in Texas as well those impacted by the recent tragedies that took place in Buffalo and Southern California.

In memory of the lives lost too soon, I encourage each of us to recommit ourselves to embodying the change we want to see as we work together to eradicate these abhorrent acts of evil and hate.

With best wishes,

Steven H Kaplan, Ph.D.
President