President Valerie Smith and Dean of Student Liz Braun shared the following in a community message earlier today:

Dear Friends,

With heavy hearts, we write in solidarity and support for the victims of the Orlando shooting, their families and friends, the entire LGBTQ community, and all who mourn this tragic loss of life. Once again, we struggle to make sense of how and why such senseless acts of violence continue to happen. The magnitude of this tragedy is devastating; it was made even more so given that it took place during a weekend when, around the country, cities and towns, including Philadelphia, were holding Pride celebrations that honor the strength, love, and dignity of the LGBTQ community.  

When tragedies such as this one occur, we risk becoming further fragmented and isolated from one another. We encourage you to find ways to connect with and support each other, and to find strength and hope in that unity.  

The summer break can be a challenging time for members of our community to draw together, given that so many of us are away from campus, but we hope that wherever you are, you will seek the support you need and offer your support to others.  Please take care of yourselves and share your light with others.

We are here for you if you need support. Please contact the Dean's Office (deans@swarthmore.edu or 610-328-8365) or Human Resources (humanresources@swarthmore.edu or 610-328-8397) if we can assist you in any way. Students may contact CAPS on call at 610-328-7768.  The Mazzoni Center for LGBTQ Health and Well-Being in Philadelphia -- https://www.mazzonicenter.org/ -- and the Trevor Project’s 24/7 hotline at 866-488-7386 also offer support services for LGBTQ individuals.

Joyce Tompkins has organized a community prayer service in response to the Orlando shooting tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Church, located at the corner of College Avenue and Chester Road. All are welcome. 

In solidarity,

Valerie Smith, President
Liz Braun, Dean of Students