As we move into this day following yesterday’s national tragedy,
our primary concern continues to be for the victims and for their
families and friends. Our campus remains safe and secure, and we
are focused on providing the best environment for our students,
faculty and staff.

As the days unfold, efforts are being undertaken by the federal
government to identify those responsible for these terrorist
acts. However, we must continue to uphold the utmost respect for
the diverse people who constitute the Washington University
community. People from all areas of the world learn, live and
work at the University, and it is especially important at this
tragic time that the highest respect be shown to all humanity on
and off campus. We want to continue to provide the kind of
atmosphere for which this community is known. We are a place
where:

*We hold mutual respect for each other.
*There is civil discourse regarding matters over which there
are differences of opinion.
*Our entire environment encourages learning and scholarship.

I am grateful to the members of this highly supportive community
who have stepped forward to assist others in this time of
tragedy. University faculty, staff and professional counselors
are available to assist those in need. I remind you all that a
blood drive is being held today in Mallinckrodt Center, and I
encourage all those who can donate blood to do so.

Below are remarks made by Professor Wayne Fields and me at last
evening’s community gathering. I believe they underline well the
steadfastness of this University to be a true community of
support and family.

Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton: (Tuesday evening, September 11,
2001)

The tragic events today sadden all of us. We gather this evening
as a community concerned for our families, our friends, and our
graduates who may have lost their lives or who may have been
injured. For many there remains the uncertainty of whether those
we love and care for are safe. At times like these we naturally
reach out to touch our family members, to affirm their safety,
and to seek consolation and support. For many gathered here this
evening, you are far away from home and concerned for your
families and friends, and they are likewise concerned about you.

We gather as your Washington University family. Our community is
one that cares for one another, and we now must support each
other. We come from all parts of the United States and the
world, concerned for those who have died or have been harmed
today. Our heart goes out to their families and friends, some
who are here tonight. Our concern extends to all those who are
affected, because we value human life.

In the aftermath of the events of today, emotions and tension
will be high. I would like to remind you that the great
expectation I have for each of you is that you will always show
respect for others, both here on campus and in the community that
surrounds us.

I thank you for your caring response to those in need, to the
call for assistance, and for your caring participation tonight.
These will be trying days as the scope of the tragedy we have
experienced becomes better defined. Our community will continue
to rally to support each other. I am personally grateful for the
support that has already been given to me and to those
responsible for the safe and secure environment we enjoy here.

You have my continuing appreciation and admiration for your
commitment to a caring community. Thank you again for coming
this evening.

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This entry was posted on Friday, September 14th, 2001 at 12:00 pm and is filed under Opinions. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.