Statement by Karen A. Holbrook on the Tragedy at Virginia Tech

April 16, 2007

The campus of Virginia Tech University is the scene of an unimaginable tragedy. As we try to come to grips with our own feelings and anxieties, our thoughts and prayers extend first to the students, families, and all members of the Virginia Tech community as they begin to cope with the enormity of their losses.

Those of us who love and have committed our lives to universities believe that a college campus is a very special place where students can interact and learn in a safe environment. The loss of so many lives at Virginia Tech reminds us of how fragile life can be. This is a tragedy that will be with all of us for decades to come.

This is a crisis that we hope will never occur again—on any campus—but we are realistic enough to know that tragedy can occur anywhere, and without warning. No one can fully prepare for something of this magnitude. 

Nonetheless, I want to assure you that the safety of our community is one of

our highest priorities.  Ohio State is finalizing a rapid response plan that engages all units to deal with campus-wide emergencies of significant proportion.  

Ohio State stands ready to provide any assistance to Virginia Tech that they may identify in the days to come.  Our hearts go out to a great university that will now confront a very different future and will need time to heal.

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