Message from Chancellor Sandeen and Cabinet about campus safety
by Michelle Saport |
Dear UAA Community,
This week has been one of mourning and of reflection since this weekend's shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh - the deadliest anti-Semitic attack in U.S. history. Events of remembrance and mourning have occurred in communities across the country, including our own, and these are important parts of the healing processes. Equally as important is speaking out against the kind of hatred and violence that has no home here, and no place on our campuses. We know you join us in condemning this shooting and the anti-Semitism that inspired it.
These are deeply disturbing times. As UAA's Chancellor and Cabinet, we reaffirm that inclusion is a core value of this institution and that the safety of everyone on our campuses is always a priority.
The very same weekend this horrific shooting occurred in Pittsburgh, we at UAA faced a violent threat on our Anchorage campus resulting from a domestic dispute. Though different circumstances, the threat was real. Thanks to immediate reporting by a UAA student, and the swift action by university and Anchorage police, the perpetrator was arrested and violence was averted. You may have seen media coverage of the incident, coverage that the violence was stopped at UAA. May it always be so.
As a community we must be vigilant observers and diligent reporters of suspicious or illegal behavior that is inconsistent with our values. All credit for the aversion of this potentially violent incident at UAA this weekend goes to the student who reported the threat to the police immediately. Such action underscores and reminds us of our strength as a university and as a community. We strive for a safe and respectful environment for all who live, work, study and play on our campuses.
Thank you for all you do every day to maintain a safe and civil environment that fosters a culture of respect and inclusivity at UAA. Our hearts break for the friends and families of the 11 individuals who died senselessly in Pittsburgh this weekend.
Sincerely, Cathy Sandeen, UAA Chancellor John Stalvey, Interim Provost Beverly Shuford, Vice Chancellor for Administrative Services Bruce Schultz, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Megan Olson, Vice Chancellor for University Advancement Renee Carter-Chapman, Senior Vice Provost for Institutional Effectiveness Jeane Breinig, Associate Vice Chancellor for Alaska Natives & Diversity
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