Roanoke responds to violence at Bridgewater College and HBCUs

Dear Maroons,

Yesterday, the news was filled with an act of violence and threats of violence that hit close to home. Our neighbors and colleagues to the north, Bridgewater College, experienced the trauma of an active shooter and two of their respected and revered campus safety officers gave their lives to protect the Bridgewater community. As that event was unfolding, 17 Historic Black Colleges and Universities received bomb threats to their communities. It leaves me asking, “What can we do when violence is both close and widespread?”

Yesterday, President Maxey reminded us of one action we can take. Maroons help Maroons and Maroons help our neighbors. We also can gather together in peace and support. I invite you to join President Maxey and me as we gather to stand in solidarity with those who are suffering the aftershock of yesterday’s violence. We will gather in Antrim Chapel at 4 p.m. Thursday to support one another, to share words of comfort and hope, and to light candles in peaceful solidarity with all who face violence.

We may compete with Bridgewater on the playing field, but at times like this we stand together with the Eagles of Bridgewater. It is important for us to express our support for them. The Chaplain’s office student staff will host opportunities on Thursday and Friday for each of you to leave a message on poster boards that will be sent to Bridgewater. You will find them waiting for you in the Colket Center during lunch and dinner. I hope you will sign and express your support for fellow students.

Please know that I am praying for each of you as we navigate this new year and term together. My door is always open. Come and see me or stop me out and about on campus.

We are in this together, Noke.

Ever thankful for each of you,

Chaplain Chris