February 15, 2008

To the Campus Community:

My thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by the tragic events that have unfolded at Northern Illinois University. On behalf of Madonna University, I extend our deepest sympathies to the Northern Illinois University community and I will post our condolences on their memorial web site.

Even if you were not directly touched by these happenings, they still evoke great sadness and stress on our campus and with our families. As more information becomes available, you may feel concerned and vulnerable. It is extremely important that we continue to draw upon our faith and our friendships for comfort and support.

We are blessed to have a Mass offered daily in the Madonna University Center Chapel. If you are able to attend the Liturgy at 11:30 a.m., please do so. It is an opportunity to remember in our prayers all those who died, and all whose lives have been changed forever by these senseless acts.

While a tragedy of this magnitude is unfathomable, I can assure you that our administrators, campus safety officers, together with public safety officials in the community, regularly review and update their plans for dealing with a wide range of emergency situations.

There are resources available to help Madonna students, faculty and staff with any feelings of grief or distress. The psychological clinic offers information, support and clinical services. The clinic can be reached at 734-432-5493.  Faculty and staff members may contact Total Employee Assistance and Management (TEAM) as part of our Employee Assistance Program at 800-448-TEAM or visit www.team-eap.com. Your safety while attending or working at Madonna University has been and continues to be our top priority. We ask that you remain alert to your surroundings and if ever you see something that causes you alarm or suspicion, to call Campus Safety, or 9-1-1. 

I extend my sincerest sympathies to all those affected by this random act of violence. 

May God’s peace be with you.