June 15, 2016

To the University of Miami Community:

The horrific shooting in Orlando this weekend hits very close to home—not only because it happened in our own state of Florida but also because it is a violation of the values that define us as a community dedicated to transforming lives.

I have been communicating with our students through social media and am proud to witness the outpouring of support to the victims and their families that they are expressing on these platforms. The University of Miami stands in solidarity with our LGBTQ students, faculty, staff, and alumni, and will continue to make their safety and sense of belonging on our campuses a top priority.

The University also continues to monitor information as it unfolds about the victims in Orlando. Our prayers go out to the victims and their family and friends, as well as to all members of our community who are grieving. For students who need assistance, the UM Counseling Center on the Coral Gables campus is open this summer and can be reached at 305-284-5511. The Faculty and Staff Assistance Program, available at 305-284-6604, is on hand to support our University employees.

Now more than ever, we must stand as an exemplary university that models a society in which many voices resonate with equal clarity and value.