The recent tragedies at Auburn University and UNC-Chapel Hill have shocked the nation and have elicited emotions ranging from outrage to fear from campus communities across the country. Whatever feelings these incidents might draw from students at our University, it is clear that now is a time to set aside all differences and purported rivalries to stand behind our sister institution as they cope with this loss.
Often when we think of our peer universities, all we can see are the differences between our reflective student body populations. The truth is that we are very close, not only in proximity, but in our values, daily practices and ambitions toward excellence. The untimely deaths of Lauren Burk and Eve Carson cut deeply into these ideals and our thoughts are with the families and communities of which these women were a part.
Although there is no way to predict incidents like these, remaining aware of your surroundings and taking safety precautions is the best way to be prepared for future incidents.
The new WolfAlert system is an important tool in that process. Students should make sure to provide detailed feedback to officials as they test the text messaging service and the audible alert system. The best way for the University to effectively evaluate these new systems is through student input.
When dealing with the bureaucracy of public education, we have a tendency to get bogged down by trivial matters that won't greatly affect us in the long run. The devastating events this past week lead us to re-evaluate our priorities and give precedent to things that truly matter. We see that life is fragile and should be cherished no matter what hardships seem to stand in our way.
For now, students can look to the Campus Police for both personal and campus safety resources and the Counseling Center for advice in dealing with the feelings and concerns this kind of event can induce. While we may never understand the motivations for these kinds of attacks, our University can offer great resources as we cope and look toward the future.
