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To the VCU community:

The savage, barbaric assaults committed by Hamas against Israeli civilians, including children, have no place in our world. These terrorist attacks have killed more than 1,000 people, including entire families who were murdered in their homes.  

It is a time to mourn those killed and injured, and to share sincere prayers and condolences with their families, friends and loved ones. We know so many members of VCU’s community are hurting deeply and painfully.

We also know that this is the beginning of what will be difficult days and weeks to come in the region. To all of our students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters who are scared, angry and heartbroken: your university stands with you. 

Students are encouraged to use support resources, including TimelyCare and University Counseling Services, available 24 hours a day at 804-828-6200. For faculty and staff, resources are available through VCU's RamStrong program. 

As I shared earlier this year, VCU is committed to promoting a safe environment so that the rights of everyone to gather and speak freely, peacefully and without violence are protected. It is our responsibility to support the First Amendment, especially when it is difficult.

At their best, universities like VCU can be more than just institutions of teaching, research and service. In moments such as this, universities can also be places of healing, where communities unite to support our common humanity.

Let us do all we can to ensure VCU is such an institution.

Sincerely,

Michael Rao
President