Justin Schwartz, interim executive vice president and provost; Damon Sims, vice president for Student Affairs; and Marcus Whitehurst, vice provost for Educational Equity, share their condemnation of the mass shooting in California and offer the University’s continued support for Penn State community members impacted by the violence.
While there are still unanswered questions about the heinous violence that unfolded in California Saturday night, it is clear that the Asian and Asian-American communities have suffered yet another despicable attack. Ten innocent lives were taken, and 10 others have been injured during what was intended to be a celebration of Asian culture and the Lunar New Year.
Our thoughts are with the victims of this shooting and their families, and we also know that there are members of our Penn State community who have been impacted by this terrible and nonsensical act. We are here to support you. To those who need support during this tragedy or at any time, please take advantage of the resources listed below.
As we process the news of this latest mass shooting, we must stand up and condemn these continued acts of violence that are senselessly plaguing our country. Too many lives have been lost and too many families have been forever changed. It’s shocking and heartbreaking, and we stand with those in our community who are reeling from this attack and other tragic acts of violence.
Sincerely,
Justin Schwartz
Interim Executive Vice President and Provost
Damon Sims
Vice President for Student Affairs
Marcus Whitehurst
Vice Provost, Educational Equity
Support Resources
Students
- Student Care and Advocacy
https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/studentcare
814-863-2020 - Counseling & Psychological Services
https://studentaffairs.psu.edu/counseling
Counseling and mental health services available through CAPS, which can be reached at 814-863-0395 for University Park students, or at each Commonwealth Campus location.
For all
- The Penn State Crisis Line (877-229-6400) and the Crisis Text Line (text “LIONS” to 741741), which are open 24/7 to Penn Staters dealing with both crisis and non-crisis situations — including faculty, staff and students at all campuses who have a question about someone else. The licensed professionals with the Penn State Crisis Line can help evaluate each individual situation, offer guidance and help connect callers with further resources if appropriate.
- Report Bias/Harassment: http://equity.psu.edu/reportbias
- University Police and Public Safety: Call 814-863-1111 (non-emergency) and 911 (emergencies)
Faculty and staff
- Penn State’s Employee Assistance Program, a free, confidential employee and family resource to be used as the first line of defense for personal or work-related concerns for employees and their families.