(THE PICKET) – I watched, as did many of you, in horror this weekend as I learned of the shooting at the night club in Orlando, Florida. My heart and mind were grieved as I thought of families and lives devastated by that event. While the event is still under investigation, we do know that a particular group, the LGBTQQIA community, was targeted. As the Director of Counseling Services, a member of the Shepherd Community, and a member of the human race, I feel the need to reach out to each of you.
Although individually each of us may not be able to change the world, as a community at Shepherd, we can and must ensure that we protect our community. We must create and maintain a community at Shepherd committed to protecting the safety of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and gender. Let this be a time of healing and coming together. Let Shepherd be a safe haven of acceptance and civility. My thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies go out to all of us impacted by this event.
Please remember that Counseling Services is available to students who have been impacted in any way by this horrific event. To contact us, please call 304-876-5276.
Shanan Spencer, LCPC
Director of Counseling
Shepherd University
Phone: 304-876-5276
Secure Fax: 304-876-5509