Kerri Tillett, Associate Vice Chancellor for Equal Opportunity & Access, Title IX Coordinator and ADA Compliance Officer, sent the following message to the campus community on April 23.

Dear students, staff, and faculty,  

I know that many of us on campus are still processing grief and shock following the tragic loss of a member of our community to an act of violence on campus last night. Throughout the day, we have been providing direct support for those closest to the victim, especially her colleagues who may feel this loss most deeply. 

As the head of the Office of Equal Opportunity and the campus Title IX coordinator, I also understand that acts of violence like this affect the entire campus in different ways.  

For those among us who have survived domestic violence or other trauma, how we navigate the world is changed forever by the experiences we carry. I want to acknowledge that and ensure we provide the space and resources needed for those who might seek them. 

With that in mind, I want to take this opportunity to remind you of the support available: 

The Center for Women and Community provides, among other services, free and confidential Sexual Assault Support and Advocacy (SASA) services for students, staff, and faculty via the link above or (413) 545-0800. Beginning on Friday, April 24, CWC will hold drop-in hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in New Africa House.  

The Employee Counseling and Consultation Office (ECCO) will host drop-in counseling support for staff and faculty from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Whitmore Hall. Support is also available 24/7 in multiple languages at the link above.  

The Center for Counseling and Psychological Health will be tabling in the Student Union on Friday, April 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and continues to be available to students for crisis support 24/7.  
 
Walk-in support for students is available at CCPH at the Middlesex Building during business hours, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Students who wish to schedule a non-crisis check-in with a CCPH provider can request a “Let’s Talk” 15-minute consultation through the patient portal. Further support for students can be found at Get Help.  

I also understand the tension that can arise when media release information through public records access at a different pace than the university, which has its own privacy and community obligations. When we lose a member of our community, we try to work closely with those closest to them to learn and respect their wishes regarding communication. While this approach may not always align with a 24-hour media cycle, it is one we will continue to follow. 

As we care for each other, I also encourage you to care for yourself – take the space and time you need, and if you need help, remember that asking for it is always a sign of strength.  

If you need further resources, please do not hesitate to contact me.  

In community, 

Kerri Tillett, J.D.

Associate Vice Chancellor for Equal Opportunity & Access;

Title IX Coordinator; ADA Compliance Officer