Dear Alumni and Friends,
Wednesday evening, thousands of Michigan State University students, staff, faculty and community members gathered at The Rock to honor and remember the victims of Monday night’s shooting. As dusk settled on the crowd, we huddled together against a biting February wind and listened to words of tribute and inspiration. Collectively, we offered comfort to one another as we processed the devastating violence that impacted our beloved campus. Video of the vigil in its entirety is available online for our entire Spartan family.
In her remarks to the campus community, Interim President Teresa Woodruff shared that “grief is a profoundly personal thing, and we know the healing process will not be swift.” Surrounded by the Spartan faithful, whose presence was felt on campus and from around the globe in texts, calls and messages of support throughout the week, it was reassuring to know none of us will walk the road to healing alone.
As we take those first steps, many of you have asked how you can help the Spartan community move forward. Rallying to support one another is a hallmark of a Spartan, and your gifts of time, encouragement and solace are gratefully received as we navigate the next steps together. For those seeking to make a difference through financial support, two MSU funds are actively providing resources to those in need:
- While MSU is covering hospital bills for the injured students, the Spartan Strong Fund has been created to provide support for the evolving needs of the individuals most critically impacted. The fund will also be used for student and staff counseling, campus safety enhancements, and recognition for those involved with the crisis, such as first responders.
- MSU’s Support our Spartans is an existing fund available to all MSU students that provides emergency assistance for those facing an unexpected financial burden, which may put completing their education at risk.
Every gift will make an impact on our recovery, and both funds will strengthen MSU’s ability to respond to this evolving crisis and to support our community as the healing process begins.
We are grateful for the generosity that has enveloped and buoyed our community throughout this heartbreaking past few days and kept hope alive that we will not be defined by one act of violence, but rather by the indomitable spirit known as Spartan Strong.
Wishing peace and comfort to you and yours.
With gratitude,
Kim Tobin
Vice President, University Advancement