Â鶹´«Ã½

Dear Â鶹´«Ã½ Campus Community:

It is with great sadness that I write you this message about yet another mass shooting in our nation – this time in Colorado Springs, Colorado. We are mourning the brutal attack resulting in the senseless loss of life at Club Q, a gathering space for the LGBTQ+ community. To date, authorities have confirmed that, in addition to five people killed, at least 25 others were injured. I want to express my distress and deepest sympathy for the victims of the shooting.

The violence and harm that took place at Club Q occurred on November 20, which is Transgender Day of Remembrance, must be named as an act of hatred and terror against the LGBTQ+ community and against the mission, vision, and core values we aim to uphold at Â鶹´«Ã½. Therefore, we at Â鶹´«Ã½ strongly condemn these acts of violence, hatred, and harm and stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.  

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or seek ways to actively support friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues who are, and seek further resources, you can visit the Â鶹´«Ã½ LGBTQ Resources website to learn more. As a campus community, individually and collectively, we all play an integral role in promoting LGBQT+ inclusion, affirmation, and validation.  

While we mourn these tragic losses in Colorado Springs, I also want to acknowledge that many people in our local community may feel afraid and alone. Please know that you are not alone at Â鶹´«Ã½ – we see you and you are valued. As you process through these challenging times, please know that we have wonderful and caring professionals and resources to assist you.

The District sponsors the  for employees who may be experiencing emotions and feelings as a result of images and conversations of war. The program provides confidential, professional referrals and face-to-face counseling for a wide array of personal and work-related concerns.  EAP can be used 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and the District pays 100% of the premium.  The toll-Free number is 1 (888) HAL- 4800.

Here at Â鶹´«Ã½, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive safe space for our students and community.  We will always continue to support every student and will be outspoken and vigilant in ensuring student success. To the members of our LGBTQ+ community, please know that we care and stand in unity and solidarity with you.  We believe in your ability and tenacity to do well, be the best version of you, and uplift the community.

Sincerely,

Dr. Robert Pimentel
President