Message to the RIT community from President Simone about Virginia Tech tragedy

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A. Sue Weisler

RIT President Albert J. Simone

TO: RIT Community
FROM: Albert J. Simone, President
SUBJECT: Virginia Tech Tragedy

On behalf of Rochester Institute of Technology, I offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Virginia Tech community, and especially to the family and friends of the victims. This is a national tragedy of unimaginable proportions. I am in shock and deeply saddened by yesterday’s horrific events. It is difficult to make sense of such a senseless act. We grieve for the victims’ families and friends.

Today, the RIT flag is lowered to half staff in memory of the Virginia Tech victims. This afternoon, RIT\'s Center for Religious Life hosted a special service in the Allen Chapel of the Interfaith Center. This gave the RIT community a time to pray, reflect and support the Virginia Tech community. The 30-minute service concluded with the bells tolling for each victim.

Counseling services are available for students, faculty and staff at our Counseling Center. Appointments can be made by calling 475-2261.

The tragedy at Virginia Tech can happen anywhere at anytime. At RIT, we will continue to work hard to ensure a safe and secure environment for our students, faculty and staff. We must remain vigilant. We must never forget the events of April 16, 2007, in Blacksburg, Va.