President Fr. McFarland's Statement on the Tragedy at Virginia Tech

WORCESTER, Mass. – I know we are all shocked and saddened by yesterday's violent killings at Virginia Tech.  Our deepest sympathies and prayers go out for the lives lost so violently, and for the many families and members of the Virginia Tech community who are suffering and mourning today.

While all reports indicate that this was an isolated incident, specific to Virginia Tech, I want you-and your families-to know that Holy Cross is, as always, taking appropriate steps to help ensure the safety of our campus and your well-being.

Security issues, policies, and procedures are constantly being evaluated here on campus.  We have made a significant investment in increasing the number of Public Safety personnel, as well as in training, equipment, and state-of-the-art security systems.  We have educational efforts in place, squarely focused on increasing awareness among students, faculty, and staff to take seriously any potential signs of danger or dangerous behavior, and passing that information on to College officials so that it can be adequately and appropriately addressed.  We also have an established Crisis, Catastrophic, and Postvention Team under the direction of the Vice President for Student Affairs and consisting of representatives from all divisions on campus, and training is conducted-and refreshed-each year with a variety of scenarios.  In recent years we have considered scenarios similar to what happened at Virginia Tech and mapped out appropriate responses.  Our Emergency Response Manual is coordinated and maintained by the Director of the Administrative Services and the Director of the Physical Plant.  Department heads across campus are fully briefed on the policies and procedures to follow in the event of a crisis.

I want to remind everyone of our shared responsibilities as members of this community.  It is important that we maintain our traditional values of openness and hospitality.  Nevertheless, incidents like this, as well as other less catastrophic ones, remind us all to be prudent about our safety.  For example, it is essential that the residence halls always remain secure.  Never prop open the doors, and do not admit anyone unless you know and trust them.  Furthermore you should always report any suspicious activity or other potential threat on or around campus immediately to Public Safety at 508-793-2222.

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All members of the Holy Cross community are invited to join together April 17 in prayer and remembrance for the victims of the horrific tragedy that occurred at Virginia Tech yesterday and for all who have been affected.

Light a Candle Prayer Service Interfaith service of prayer and reflection Mary Chapel (downstairs) 5:05 p.m.

Mary or McCooey Chapel (downstairs) 10 p.m. Mass