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Contact: Todd Cohen, University Relations, (785) 864-8858.

Chancellor's letter to university staff and students

LAWRENCE -- University of Kansas Chancellor Robert Hememway has sent the following letter to all university staff and students via email. The chancellor also will be sending a letter to students via email.

Dear Colleagues:

We are all in shock over the events that have transpired this morning in New York City, Washington, D.C., and, I understand, Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The tremendous loss of life and the overwhelming sense of needless tragedy have stunned us.

I've been in contact with the Governor's Office. State agencies are instructed to operate as usual, to the extent possible. As a result, the University will continue to hold classes and conduct normal business. Of course, it is at a faculty member's discretion whether to hold class, but I am encouraging all of our faculty to teach their classes as usual. I also suggest that faculty consider using the class as an opportunity for students to discuss these tragic events.

For those students or employees who have special concerns regarding family and friends on the East Coast, four sites have been set up on campus by Counseling and Psychological Services. Professional counseling staff will be on hand in the Kansas Union in the lobby on the 4th floor and in the Centennial Room on the 6th floor, the lobby of Ellsworth Hall, and Watkins Health Center. These sites will be open throughout today and, as needed, through the rest of the week.

If you are aware of KU students, faculty, or staff who are traveling or studying in the affected cities, please assist us in gathering these names. With names of students, please contact the Dean of Students Office at 864-4060. For faculty and staff, please contact the Provost's Office at 864-4904. We will attempt to verify that all KU personnel in these areas are safe and have established contacts with concerned family and colleagues.

For any updates on University operations, please check the KU web site at www.ku.edu.

It is important that we not panic or act precipitously. We need to gather as much information as possible before we make any judgments.

Let us pray for our country and the many whose lives are endangered today.

Chancellor Robert Hemenway