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Dear OSU-Cascades Students,

 

These past few weeks have been difficult, as across the nation there has been a mass shooting in Atlanta, where the majority of victims were women of Asian descent; another mass shooting at a grocery store in Boulder, Colo., and this Monday marked the beginning of the trial of Derek Chauvin, a former police officer charged with killing George Floyd. As a result, these events weigh heavily on many in our community.

 

As a campus, one of the three commitments in our Vision 2030 is focused on social justice. We strive for a world in which all community members and groups are able to participate fully and equally in society. On campus, we work to design programs that meet diverse needs and create an atmosphere where everyone feels physically and psychologically secure. We strive to advance these goals every day.

 

These events and their news coverage are likely to rekindle emotions related to ongoing violence against people of color, racism and systemic inequality. Please be aware that at this time, there may be many among us who need extra space and care, and this may be especially true of Asian, Asian American, Black and African American community members, and other people of color. During this time, please cultivate empathy and care for each other. Consider that words can cause harm. Take care in how you frame conversations and provide flexibility to those who may need it during this time.

 

Now we want to turn to action. We have an opportunity to open dialogue within our community regarding the development of an integrated crisis intervention and safety strategy for our campus. We would like to hear your concerns, understand your values, and subsequently share thoughts on our future planning efforts. In the coming weeks, we will host listening sessions for students, faculty and staff regarding this strategy. We will be communicating times and Zoom invites soon.

 

In the meantime, support from a licensed counselor is free for students. Make an appointment with the OSU-Cascades counselor by e-mailing [email protected]. If you need immediate assistance, contact the Crisis YouthLine at 877-968-8491.

 

Now is a good time for us to reach out and check in with others. Seek help if you need it. And, above all, let’s support each other.

 

Sincerely,

 

Dr. Rebecca Johnson

Vice President

 

Blair Garland

Senior Director of Community Relations and Marketing

 

Dr. Andrew Ketsdever

Dean of Academic Affairs

 

Brittany Preston

Director of Admissions and Recruitment

 

Jane Reynolds

Executive Director of Student Success

 

Kelly Sparks

Associate Vice President, Finance & Strategic Planning

Category: 
OSU-Cascades
Send Date: 
Wednesday, March 31, 2021