12/14/2025
Our hearts are heavy.
The recent shooting on the Brown College campus is a painful reminder of how fragile safety can feel, even in spaces meant for learning, growth, and opportunity. Events like this shake communities to their core and leave lasting emotional impact—far beyond the headlines.
To the students, faculty, staff, families, and first responders affected: you are not alone. Grief, fear, anger, confusion, and numbness are all valid responses to trauma. There is no “right” way to process something like this. What matters most right now is connection, care, and compassion.
At the same time, we have to be honest: gun violence is not just a moment—it’s a public health crisis. Awareness and prevention require collective responsibility, not silence.
Ways we can increase gun violence awareness and promote safety:
Stay informed and vigilant: Know your surroundings, report concerning behaviors, and take threats seriously—even when they feel uncomfortable to address.
Engage in open conversations: Talk with students, colleagues, and loved ones about safety planning, mental health, and warning signs of distress.
Advocate for training and resources: Support campus and community initiatives focused on threat assessment, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed response.
Normalize mental health support: Encourage counseling and crisis services early—prevention starts long before a breaking point.
Practice community care: Check on one another. Isolation increases risk; connection saves lives.
This is not about fear—it’s about preparedness, awareness, and proactive leadership. We honor those impacted not only with words, but with action.
If you are struggling in the aftermath of this tragedy, please reach out to a trusted person or a mental health professional. Strength is not pushing through alone—it’s knowing when to lean in.
Today, we grieve.
Tomorrow, we commit to being more aware, more engaged, and more intentional about protecting our communities.
