I’m sure I speak for all of us when I say this morning brought feelings of both sadness and anxiety as we faced what should be an ordinary Monday in our own city but feels like anything but ordinary. The random acts of violence over the weekend, experienced in both New York and New Jersey, remind us that we live in a place that is a symbol of America and the values that sadly make us a target for those who reject what we work so hard to defend.
Although we cannot predict the future, we can commit to supporting one another and actively speaking out against acts of violence, oppression and hatred. Today I encourage all of you to continue your good work with perhaps just a bit more gentleness and compassion for yourself and others.
Debra M. McPhee, PhD
Dean/Professor
