Words of condolence are not strong enough to express the horror and outrage over the
shootings and loss of life in Orlando this past weekend. This was a hate crime in
its most direct form and, sadly, such acts have become too commonplace in both the
United States and the world. On a personal level, each of us mourns with the families
and friends of those tragically murdered and injured. Yet we cannot stop there. We
must work tirelessly – together - as educators, citizens, and students to make our
voices heard, keep our values strong, and demonstrate solidarity, acceptance and understanding
in the face of bigotry, hatred and senseless acts of brutality.
In this regard, there are two vigils scheduled in our community. On June 18, from
11 a.m. – 12 p.m., the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the South Jersey Shore
will host a vigil at the Unitarian Universalist Center on 75 S Pomona Rd, Galloway,
New Jersey 08215. On June 20 at 5 p.m., The Greater Atlantic City GLBT Alliance will
host an ocean wreath ceremony and vigil, featuring Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian,
at the beach outside of the Tropicana Casino. There will be free parking for this
vigil, courtesy of the Tropicana.
The staff of the Offices of the Dean of Students and the Wellness Center offer support
to students, faculty and staff. We encourage you to speak with a grief counselor
by contacting the Counseling Center at 609.652.4722. The Center has regular hours
in J-204, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. For counseling assistance
at other times, please call 609.515.6885 or 609.226.7265.
As a University, we place the safety of our community as paramount. Our comprehensive
emergency preparedness website,
www.stockton.edu/prepare is designed to share pertinent information in the event of an emergency.
My heart and mind are with all of you during this most difficult time.
