Statement from President Mason
on Northern Illinois University Shootings
February 15, 2008

Members of the University Community:

We are once again mourning a great tragedy on a university campus. Less than a year after the shootings at Virginia Tech, lives have now been lost and injuries sustained at Northern Illinois University due to another similar act of violence. The tragedy is compounded by the fact that this is the fourth school shooting in the country in the past week. As we learn more details about the horrifying events of the past 24 hours, we at The University of Iowa stand in solidarity and sympathy with the NIU campus, the DeKalb community, and everyone who is affected by this devastating event.

I would like to remind you that University Counseling Service (http://www.uiowa.edu/~ucs/, 319-335-7294) is always ready to help any students who desire assistance on our campus. UCS has also posted information on its web page about managing distress after a traumatic event (http://www.uiowa.edu/~ucs/trauma.html). Faculty and Staff Services also offers counseling and other assistance (http://www.uiowa.edu/hr/oe/fss/, 319-335-2085).

Over the past year, the UI has implemented a number of programs, procedures, and methods to improve our campus security. This most recent tragedy reminds us that we must continuously remain vigilant and improve our commitment to the safety of all faculty, staff, students, and visitors. That will always remain a paramount priority.

As we learn more about what happened in Illinois, no doubt our campus will respond with compassion and strength. We will keep you informed of organized expressions of sorrow and support as they develop. For now, let us remember those who have died, think of those who are injured and grieving, and stand together in support of each other here on our campus.

Sally Mason
President