SPEECHES & STATEMENTS: VIRGINIA TECH MESSAGE
April 18, 2007
The tragedy at Virginia Tech reminds us that there are times that defy our ability to reason or understand. It is in times like these that we learn to lean on and take comfort in our faith and in one another. As we mourn the loss of life at Virginia Tech, we realize students and their parents have concerns and questions about the safety procedures at John Carroll.
On the John Carroll University campus, extensive efforts are taken to promote a safe and secure place for living and learning. The safety of students, faculty and staff has been and continues to be a high priority.
We are served by a well trained and professional campus safety services department. Our police officers are on 24-hour patrol. We regularly review safety procedures and realize the significance of this practice in light of the Virginia Tech tragedy. Like many other universities, we will review, evaluate and reflect upon what can be learned from these events to improve our planning and response.
In addition, the university posts comprehensive emergency procedures on the web site home page, located at http://www.jcu.edu/campuslife/css/emergency.
Members of our staff meet regularly with police, fire, ambulance, emergency and communications personnel. These meetings include exercising plans and conducting emergency scenarios that we all hope never become a reality.
The University Counseling Center and Campus Ministry staffs are available to speak with anyone who seeks counseling (216.397.4717) or pastoral services (216.397.4283).
Please join me in praying for the members of our extended community at Virginia Tech during this very difficult time.
Peace,

Reverend Robert L. Niehoff, S.J.
President, John Carroll University
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