TO: The UMBC Community

FROM: Freeman Hrabowski

RE: The Tragedy at Virginia Tech

In the wake of Monday’s tragedy on the campus of Virginia Tech, we want to extend our deepest sympathies to all members of the university community there – students, their families, faculty, staff, and alumni.

We recognize that the tragedy has had profound reverberations on college and university campuses across America, including UMBC. I want you to know that our Emergency Preparedness Council, headed by Dr. Charles Fey, Vice President for Student Affairs, is already intensively reviewing existing university policies regarding campus safety and security, particularly as they relate to the kind of horrific events that occurred at Virginia Tech. We will continue working to strengthen those policies to ensure that our community is as safe as possible. We will keep the UMBC community informed about our progress.

Our Student Government Association will convene an open forum on Friday, April 20, at 12:00 noon in The Commons (2nd floor student organization area). Members of the campus community will have an opportunity to share their thoughts and concerns. Representatives from Counseling Services, Residential Life, Student Life, Campus Police, the Interfaith Center, and the administration will be available.

Members of our University Counseling Services (410-455-2472) are available to anyone on campus who may be in need of support. The website is www.umbc.edu/counseling.

Again, I know that you share my sorrow following yesterday’s tragedy. Please hold the Virginia Tech community in your thoughts and prayers.