Wittenberg Community,
Today’s guilty verdict in the Derek Chauvin trial brings to a close a difficult chapter for our nation. But it is just that, a chapter. The struggles BIPOC and other marginalized people and communities face are real and continuing. We have a long way to go, and the struggle for justice stretches beyond today.
Already this week, we have seen more mass shootings and more killings by police, and the weight of our current reality looms large on all of us and across our beloved campus. Watching recent events and this trial has proved emotional. As we have stressed during difficult times, the strength of Wittenberg lies in its people together as one community. To help our campus process what is transpiring in our world, the Office of Student Development plans to provide time and a compassionate space to gather. Vice President Casey Gill will be sending out more details.
Please know there are other numerous resources available for our students through the Dean of Students Office, Counseling Center and Pastor’s Office. Additionally, Wittenberg offers online support options including Talkspace and Talk-One-2-One for all, as well as through the University's Employee Assistance Plan.
I encourage you to utilize these resources and reach out to each other as we continue to process what our hearts and eyes will never forget. We have to do better. We MUST do better.
Regards,
Michael L. Frandsen, Ph.D.
University President