Preparing for the Ferguson Ruling

November 24, 2014

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

We anticipate that the grand jury decision regarding the circumstances around the killing of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, will be released shortly. I am aware that any ruling from the grand jury will provoke strong feelings and may create a desire for people to come together to share their feelings, to talk about what this decision means and to consider how we respond as a community and as a society.

As soon as the decision is announced, Dean of Religious Life Jennifer Walters will open the Helen Hills Hills Chapel as a place for our community to gather and reflect. To the degree it is possible, I encourage faculty to enable students to participate.

We know that our exploration of issues of race and justice must continue following the Ferguson grand jury ruling. After the Thanksgiving break, in conjunction with faculty, we will host events examining the ruling and its meaning and impact.

In the meantime, I encourage us to support each other and to remain sensitive to the needs of all members of our community.

Sincerely,

Kathleen McCartney