A Note from President Ettling In the Wake of Tree of Life Synagogue Murders

A note from President John Ettling to the campus community:

 

It is with deep sadness that I write to share some thoughts with you about the murders this weekend of 11 people at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. These senseless killings in a place and time of worship tear at the heart of our society.

 

As the shooter moves to his first court appearance today, it is important for us to face aspects of this crime and implications for us all. 

 

Our campus and our area have a robust Jewish community, integral to the fabric of this college and city. We mourn together in the profoundness of this loss and the insecurity it presents. Please know we will make every effort to ensure students in Plattsburgh Hillel, friends at Temple Beth Israel, and all others feel safe and welcome.

 

We should also note this shooting comes in the wake of mail bombs sent to numerous political leaders, and the murders of two African American women who were killed in a grocery store in Kentucky by a shooter who had tried to enter a predominately African American church. These events are unsettling on their own. 

 

With such violence advanced by those trafficking in hate and conspiracy theories, we stand in opposition. Inclusion, acceptance, and dialogue are values we espouse. Each of us can do our part to weave these values into our actions and live them out. 

 

Interim Chief Diversity Officer Portia Turco has noted her office is available for those desiring support. She can be reached at 518-564-4167. Employees can also seek support from the Employee Assistance Program by calling 518-564-3277. 

 

Students who are struggling with this news can also seek support from the Counseling Center at 518-564-3086; students can also walk into the center office to make an appointment.  Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

 

Regards,

 

 

John Ettling
President