Berkeleyan

Chancellor expresses campus's sorrow over Virginia Tech tragedy

18 April 2007

On Monday, Chancellor Birgeneau sent the following message to the campus community in response to the shootings on the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Va., that took the lives of 33 students and faculty earlier that day.

We are deeply shocked and saddened by the terrible tragedy in Virginia, whose scope and senselessness lie beyond the power of mere words to describe.

This afternoon, on behalf of our university, I sent a letter of condolence and support to the president of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute, Charles Steger, and his entire campus community.

Our campus is offering assistance and now stands ready to provide whatever might be necessary to help Virginia Tech cope and recover in the weeks and months to come.

Today's events are also a most unfortunate reminder of the need to be prepared for emergencies of every kind. I want to assure everyone that nothing is more important to us than the safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

As details of this terrible incident unfold, many from our own community may find themselves deeply unsettled by this news. Individuals who feel they could benefit from professional assistance are encouraged to seek help at the Tang Center; for details please visit their website.

If you have further questions about campus security services and procedures, please do not hesitate to call the UCPD at (510) 642-6760.

Finally, during the difficult days ahead I know that there will be a special place in all our thoughts and prayers for our friends and colleagues in Virginia.

Yours sincerely,

Robert J. Birgeneau
Chancellor