Dear AU community,

Feeling safe and supported is critical to each of us, both as individuals and as members of the AU community. This feeling can be elusive at times, particularly when numerous troubling events occur. In the past six months, safety questions have multiplied locally, nationally, and globally. From the events in the Middle East and ensuing fears of violence and threats on campuses to the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, impacting our colleagues at Bates College, to recent incidents of violent crime on other DC-area university campuses, we are confronted far too often with fear, sorrow, and uncertainty about what may happen next. How we address these matters–from campus safety and personal well-being to understanding how we engage with the world around us–is critical. To support the community as we navigate these times, in addition to the written information we have provided in a number of communications, we are sharing additional information and opportunities for engagement through an upcoming webinar.

On Friday, November 3, at 11 a.m., we will host a community webinar on safety and support resources. Campus leaders, including Vicky Wilkins, Bronté Burleigh-Jones, Raymond Ou, Phil Morse, and Beth Muha will speak with the community about how to engage with our resources, discuss how we are actively supporting safety, and address key questions. Our topics will include campus safety measures available to the community, enhanced security protocols to address recent events, updates on ongoing investigations, personal safety practices, and the spectrum of support and well-being resources available to faculty, staff, and students. We will also discuss the ongoing regular review of safety approaches in our increasingly complex world, including opportunities for community engagement that will take place in the weeks ahead.

To register and submit questions for the webinar, please visit the event webpage. Submitted questions may be consolidated into key themes so that we address the topics of highest interest to the community during the webinar. The webinar will be recorded and available on the AU website for viewing for anyone unable to attend.

Thank you for your ongoing support for the community, particularly as we each address these difficult times and keep our community safe.

Onward,

Sylvia