ATHENS, Ohio -- The violent and tragic shooting death of one of our students and the wounding of another of our students has deeply saddened and shaken our peaceful community. This senseless act has profoundly affected us all. I am appalled by the fact that anyone would resort to violence apparently to solve personal issues.

As I attended the candlelight vigil in memory of Terris Ross on Wednesday evening, I was struck by the mutual support and comfort our campus community is able to generate during difficult times. The unity shown by those present was a testament to Terris' life and the influence he had on others. Reaching out to family and friends moves beyond expressions of sympathy and regret and assumes an active quality in helping others make sense of this tragedy.

Our president, Dr. Robert Glidden, is out of the country on university business but has expressed his sadness. He is staying in touch with efforts to work with those close to our two students as well as classmates and members of our community who are also distressed by recent events.

Toward that end, I am heartened by our ability to provide support and counseling to these individuals in need and coordinate housing options for those with concerns about their personal safety. The University is actively exploring academic options for those most deeply affected and asking for understanding from faculty for those who wish to participate in services for Terris on Friday.

If any member of our community wishes to join in the services, they should contact the Office of Student Affairs, 593-4022. For those seeking help or support or just wishing to share their thoughts and emotions, I invite them to contact Counseling and Psychological Services in Hudson Health Center, 593-1616. After hours counseling is available from Careline, 593-3344.

Our ability to count on each another is a source of strength as we move forward. It is one of the unique dimensions of our Ohio University family and a comfort at this most sad and difficult time.