Dear San José State campus community,

As SJSU celebrates and honors its spring and summer graduates this week, we now do so with very heavy hearts.

Our campus community feels deep sorrow, grief and anger on behalf of the innocent victims and loved ones killed in yesterday’s shooting tragedy in Uvalde, Texas. It is a despicable act to take place anywhere, much less a classroom of children and teachers who were anticipating their summer break. It is incomprehensible and unacceptable.

As a parent myself, I can imagine there are many families here and around the country today who are anxious and worried. I also can imagine that for many in our Chicanx and Latinx communities, the ethnic identities of victims and their families in the predominantly Mexican American community of Uvalde hit home even more. 

As always, we have resources to help those who may need them. Students can contact Counseling and Psychological Services or SJSU Cares, while employees are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program. 

We also offer a Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) that takes referrals regarding individuals who may need help in terms of mental health. BIT can consult or can reach out to individuals to provide support. Call 408-924-6339 or use this non-emergency referral form. 

In times like these, our greatest strength is in compassion and community connection. Reach out to those you love. May those who were killed rest in peace. May their families and community find support in their collective grief. 

Sincerely,

Steve Perez

Interim President