29
October
2018
|
00:00 AM
Europe/Amsterdam

A Message from Dean James Martin II on the Tree of Life Tragedy

To the Swanson School Community,

We return to campus this morning saddened by the tragedy at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Squirrel Hill this past Saturday. Our thoughts, prayers and hearts are with the families and friends impacted by this senseless act. We are also resolute that hate has no place in our city, our university, and our Swanson School of Engineering, and that we must come together as a community to affirm our compassion and respect for each other.

The University asks me to remind everyone that resources are available for students, faculty and staff at https://www.pitt.edu/pitt-cares-resources. Please refer to it for updates and details about forthcoming events. We will also provide any further updates via email and social media.

In my short time here as dean, I continue to marvel at the determination and fortitude of the people of Pittsburgh. Throughout its history, our city has been shaped by its many diverse neighborhoods. Likewise, the University of Pittsburgh has been a nexus of our city’s resolve, and while this tragedy will scar, it will only strengthen our resolve to be better for the generations who follow. As a neighbor from Squirrel Hill, Mr. Fred Rogers, once told us, “There is no normal life that is free of pain. It’s the very wrestling with our problems that can be the impetus for our growth.”

I hope you will hold this moment in your heart, and help to make our community even stronger.

-- Jimmy Martin
Dean, Swanson School of Engineering 

Contact: Paul Kovach