Early this morning, the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. were attacked in a coordinated effort. There has been great loss of life, and unknown casualties. These events have shocked the nation and our own Tufts community.

   This is a time when we must come together to support each other, reflect on what has happened, and help each other cope with the tragic consequences of this heinous act.

   Like you, I am finding it difficult to concentrate on anything other than the suffering of so many innocent people and their families. Many members of our community are trying to contact loved ones who may have been affected. The uncertainty is overwhelming.

   I urge faculty and students to use their scheduled class time as an opportunity to come together in support of each other. Any individual who has concerns about the welfare of a family member or friend should be excused from class or work and supported in dealing with those concerns. We urge all students to remain on campus; all airports currently are closed.

   I urge you to not rush to judgment about those who might be responsible for these actions. In due course, we may learn more. However, even at that point we must continue to demonstrate respect and compassion for all members of our community. None of us condones these actions. We are one community at Tufts, and we must support each other in these difficult times.

   We are working to organize further communications regarding the resources that are available to members of the community. Goddard Chapel on the Medford/Somerville campus is open all day as is St. James Church adjacent to the Boston campus, and the university's chaplains are available to anyone, on any campus, in need of assistance.

   There will be a service at 5 p.m. today at Goddard Chapel to bring our community together for reflection and support followed by conversation. The Counseling Center is open as well. More information will be sent to you soon, and will be available through your dean's office as well.

   Thank you for understanding, and for your commitment to supporting your friends and colleagues in the Tufts community. Please check your email frequently for additional messages.

Lawrence S. Bacow
President