Dear FIU family,
Our nation is once again in mourning, after 19 children and two teachers became the latest victims of another senseless act of gun violence. These students and their teachers, all members of the Robb Elementary School family in Uvalde, Texas, lost their lives just 10 days after an equally tragic mass shooting at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York.
During this moment of deep pain, confusion and outrage, our hearts are with the families and friends of the victims, as well as the entire Uvalde community. We also hold in our hearts the memory of those killed in the school shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in nearby Parkland, among others.
The Parkland shooting, in particular, hit close to home for many of us here at FIU. Tuesday’s shooting brings back horrible memories for so many in our community, who need to know they are not alone.
As always, our university is here to help anyone who feels affected by this incident, or in need of any kind of support. FIU Student Health & Wellness offers several avenues of support, including our Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Their number is 305-348-2277. Faculty and staff resources are available through FIU’s Office of Employee Assistance (OEA) at 305-348-2469 or via email at oea@fiu.edu.
In addition, our own professor of psychology and psychiatry Jonathan Comer has shared tips for parents and caregivers who are helping children cope during moments of tragedy.
This is, without a doubt, a very sad and tragic moment for our nation. As individuals and as members of our communities, let us identify and support reasonable and effective solutions that promote peace and safety in our schools, our workplaces, our houses of worship, and our communities.
Sincerely,
Kenneth A. Jessell
Interim President