Berquam, Sims: Support students after Robinson decision

The following message is being sent to faculty and staff on May 12, 2015.

Dear Deans, Chairs and Faculty:

As the Madison community awaits the findings from the investigation into the shooting death of Tony Robinson, we are mindful of those members of our campus community who have felt the impact of this and other similar deaths more heavily than others.

Following the incidents in Ferguson, Staten Island and Baltimore we are proud of the UW–Madison students, faculty and staff who, in voicing their concerns about these difficult and troubling events with civility and respect, are continuing to uphold our long UW tradition of activism.

We reach out to ask for your help in creating safe and respectful spaces during this last week of exams and beyond.  We acknowledge this as an important time for us to begin the process of healing and provide opportunities for our campus community to share, discuss and learn from each other.

You may have students who will need additional support.  The Multicultural Student Center is available for students to gather after the decision and University Health Services staff are available for individual student needs.

Thanks for your support,

Lori Berquam, Vice Provost for Student Life and Dean of Students

Patrick Sims, Vice Provost for Diversity and Chief Diversity Officer