Good afternoon, Lobos --

The past few days have been tough, so I’d like to take this opportunity to let you know that I’m keeping all of you in the Lobo family particularly close to my heart. I also want to make sure you have information regarding the support and resources you may need as we all continue to cope with the tragedy on our campus this past weekend, and with the disturbing information emerging about it that leaves us with a deep sense of anxiety, uncertainty, and sadness.

Tragically, what happened on our campus is part of a series of recent violent incidents across the nation, including the horrific shooting this weekend at a gay nightclub in neighboring Colorado that took five lives. We must figure out how to stop this escalation of brutality and cruelty.  

We all cope differently, and The University of New Mexico continues to offer a wide range of mental health support services and counseling for studentsstaff, and faculty. Round-the-clock support for students continues to be available via the SHAC/LoboRESPECT Advocacy after-hours crisis line, which can be accessed by calling SHAC at 505-277-3136, selecting option 3, or calling LoboRESPECT at 505-277-2911. Additionally, if you feel an academic accommodation would be helpful, please speak with your appropriate faculty member.

As someone who not only works on campus but also lives here, I understand that a safe campus environment is crucial to our success as a university. I remain committed to the safety and security of UNM, while acknowledging the challenges we face as an open campus in an urban environment. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with some of the tools and tips available on our campus safety site that may help protect you and ensure the safety of the UNM community. And remember that guns and other weapons are never permitted on any of our campuses.

I know our pack will be saddened and shaken for some time. I encourage you to lean on, and find strength in, your fellow Lobos and to remain respectful and supportive of each other as we continue to make our way through this troubling time together.

Please take care.

Garnett S. Stokes President