By From Uofl News

Today our nation faces a tragedy of unparalled proportions. At this time we need to be at our best. Our hearts, prayers and thoughts should be with the victims of this horrible tragedy, their families and friends around the country and locally.

What we can do at U of L is to remain calm and determined not to let today’s events deter us from our resolve to be one community – a community made up of people living, working and learning together. Our respect for each other and our care and support should be a their highest as we band together during this time.

The governor has decided that state government will remain open. In keeping with the spirit of this decision, the university also will remain open.

Supervisors and faculty are encouraged to be sensitive to and work with employees and students who may have special concerns or requests at this time. Employee leave should be counted against accrued time.

I ask that the university community join together in three minutes of silence at 4 p.m. this afternoon for the victims and the people whose lives have been affected by this tragedy.

We have made the following arrangements to support students, faculty and staff:

  • The Red Barn and the Student Activities Center TV lounges will be open and carrying news coverage of today’s events. Residence hall staff members will be encouraging students to go to one of the on-campus TV locations. A counselor from the University Counseling Center will be available at those sites.
  • Members of the University Counseling Center staff also will be available at the center until 11 p.m. today and tomorrow for students who may be in need of help. The Counseling Center number is 6585.
  • The Interfaith Center will be open through 7 p.m. today for prayer and will have a community vigil today at 4 p.m.
  • Resident students are encouraged to call housing staff with any concerns and are invited to assemble in the Red Barn to be in the company of other students.
  • A counselor for students will be present at the Medical-Dental Apartments at the Health Sciences Center.
  • Counselors from the Employee Assistance Program are available to talk with employees and others who need confidential counseling. They will be in the Human Resources Building, Room 118, on the Belknap Campus and in the Abell Administration Building, Room 414, at the Health Sciences Center from 1:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. today. Appointments are not necessary, but you may call Linda Ayre at 6543 if you need additional information.
  • The Red Cross is encouraging people to donate blood and is extending its hours as needed. Donation sites are 520 E. Chestnut St. and 291 Hubbards Lane.
  • Anyone with concerns about campus safety should call the Department of Public Safety at 6111.