Dear Bellarmine students, faculty and staff,
This morning, our hometown was shaken by news of a mass shooting in a downtown business, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. Early reports indicate that this was an act of workplace violence. We want to reassure you that our campus is safe and the Louisville Metro Police Department has indicated the downtown area is once again secure.
For the Louisville community, Bellarmine extends our prayers to the loved ones of those lives taken and to those injured or otherwise affected by the shooting in the Old National Bank Building, and to all those who have been impacted by acts of violence. May God support you as you deal with this tragedy, and in the days and weeks following such heartbreak. Our hearts and our gratitude go out to the police officers and other emergency responders who ran into harm's way to take care of the members of our community and keep this tragedy from becoming even worse. They were there when our community needed them most.
For our own Bellarmine community that is returning following the Easter break – which is a time of hope and renewal – today’s news of this act of senseless violence downtown disturbs us to the core. Please take care of one another, hug your loved ones, and reach out to those in need. While our campus was not directly affected, it is a reminder that Louisville is not immune to the violence or hate that can cause an individual to take another’s life. These events may be particularly distressing to those who have previously been affected by recent loss, violence, or other trauma. Know also that we are also reaching out and extending support to students who may have been in the downtown area today for internships or downtown hospitals for clinicals.
We are a community that takes to heart the mission to serve and to improve the human condition in the city of Louisville, the region, and the world. Our engagement in our community makes us stronger, provides a sense of purpose, and causes us pain when we see senseless and violent acts. Our faith seeks justice and works to improve our community through our teaching, learning, leadership, and service. In alignment with our mission and values, please reach out to one another to support our vulnerabilities and provide comfort. These campus resources are available to help you process these distressing events:
- Campus Ministry – 502-272-8051
- Office of Identity and Inclusion – 502-272-7304
- Bellarmine International Student & Scholar Services - 502-272-8150
- Office of Military & Veterans Services – 502-272-7027
- Students: Counseling Center – 502-272-8480
- Employees: Employee Assistance Program – 502-589-4357
Students who have any questions or concerns can also email
studentaffairs@bellarmine.edu.
On Tuesday, April 11, we will offer two opportunities to gather with others on the campus community as we deal with the aftermath of this tragedy:
- 11 a.m. in Hilary’s -- an informal gathering sponsored by Campus Ministry and the Counseling Center
- 8 p.m. in Our Lady of the Woods Chapel – a reflection and prayer for this tragedy will take place at 8 p.m., prior to the Holy Mass at 9 p.m.
Campus safety is of the utmost importance at Bellarmine. Our Office of Public Safety leads our efforts to ensure our campus knows how to respond in such a situation. You can review campus emergency planning information at https://www.bellarmine.edu/security/active-aggressor-information/. If you would like to learn more about our work to prepare for the possibility of active aggressors and other emergency scenarios, Public Safety leadership will arrange a time to meet with your department or organization. Contact Debbie Fox, director of Public Safety, at 502-272-7388 or dfox@bellarmine.edu.
Please join me in prayer for the lives lost and for the families who will never be the same.
Sincerely,
Susan M. Donovan, Ph.D.
President