Division News & Statements
Message from GVSU President regarding Orlando tragedy
June 14, 2016
Dear GVSU students, faculty and staff,
All around the country and the world, people are trying to come to terms with the horrific events that took place in Orlando. We are mindful of the many people killed, the wounded, their families, loved ones, and friends - and the heartache and sadness they, and all of you, are experiencing as a result of this tragedy.
Even though this did not happen on a college campus, we know these types of events have an impact on our students, faculty and staff. In fact, we know that 24 of our students reside in Florida, with four listing Orlando as their permanent address. We also have two students engaged in internships in Orlando. University staff are making contact with these students and will communicate the full support of our University in the days and weeks to come. This event is especially tragic for the LGBTQIA and Latino/a communities since the unspeakable attack targeted a place of celebration and belonging. As President Barack Obama stated, “This is a sobering reminder that attacks on any American — regardless of race, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation — is an attack on all of us and on the fundamental values of equality and dignity that define us as a country.”
The Milton E. Ford LGBT Resource Center and the University Counseling Center (UCC) will be offering a space for students, faculty and staff who would like to discuss their reactions to the tragic events in Orlando, and to provide support for members of our own community who have been impacted. The gathering will be in the Multipurpose Room of the Mary Idema Pew Library on Wednesday, June 15 at noon.
As a University we strive to support all of our students, faculty, staff, and community during this difficult time. The following resources may be useful:
- The University Counseling Center is available to students for a drop-in appointment or by phone. Summer hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Counseling Center is located in the Student Services Building, room 204, (616) 331-3266.
- The Milton E. Ford Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Center is available for support. Summer hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Located in the Russel H. Kirkhof Center, room 1161, (616) 331-2530.
- The Division of Inclusion and Equity Social Justice Centers (Office of Multicultural Affairs, Women’s Center, Disability Support Resources and Interfaith Services) are open throughout the summer and are also available to provide support for students and employees. For questions or more information, contact [email protected] or (616) 331-3296.
- Employees who need support and resources are encouraged to use the GVSU employee assistance program, Encompass, or by calling 800-788-8630.
- If you or anyone you know is experiencing an emergency or in need of immediate attention, please call 9-1-1.
Grand Valley strives to be a place that is guided by values of inclusiveness and community. Know that I have all of you, the entire LGBTQIA and Latino/a community, and those in Orlando in my thoughts and prayers.
Very respectfully,
Thomas J. Haas
President