Message from President Smith Regarding Umpqua Community College

(October 2, 2015) Oakton President Joianne Smith sent the following email Friday to the Oakton Community College community regarding the tragedy at Umpqua Community College.

Dear members of the Oakton family,
Yesterday, we were all reminded of the fragility of life when a gunman took the lives of 10 members of the Umpqua Community College community in Oregon.

Our hearts ache for the victims of the tragedy, and for all those affected.

Counselors are available to help both students and employees process the range of emotions they may be feeling about this tragedy. To make an appointment, call Oakton Counseling Services at 847.635.1744.

Speaking as a parent, when our students go to college, we expect them to be safe. However, too many times in this country, we have come to see acts of violence, whether in a school, in a neighborhood, or at home.

We can’t allow ourselves to become desensitized and accept increasing levels of violence as a fact of life. Still, we must be prepared, and we all have a role in keeping our campus safe.

While we grieve alongside those at Umpqua and pray that they find strength and comfort today and in the difficult days ahead, I hope that all members of the Oakton community continue to make our world safe for students to grow, thrive and reach their potential.

Sincerely,

Joianne Smith
President