Dear Saint Mary's community,
The unthinkable tragedy of this past weekend has left all of us shocked, saddened, and grieving. Our closely-knit, peaceful province is feeling this loss deeply.
In a place that celebrates close connections in our everyday lives, these senseless acts are particularly painful. Our community is connected; our students, staff, faculty and alumni are part of Nova Scotia and many have lost loved ones, family, friends and acquaintances.
On behalf of the entire Saint Mary’s community, I extend deepest sympathies to those who have lost someone. I also want to express gratitude to the many first responders and front-line workers who risk their own safety to protect their fellow Nova Scotians.
In a continuing expression of remembrance, flags at Saint Mary’s University were lowered to half-staff yesterday morning and will remain so for the rest of this week, including through the virtual vigil being hosted on Facebook on Friday evening
While we cannot gather in-person to support one another in this difficult time, there is help available. I encourage you to reach out to these university supports if you need assistance. I also want to convey to you the many expressions of support we are receiving from across Canada and around the world.
As the sun set over Nova Scotia yesterday evening, many of us took comfort in its uncommon beauty. Still others across the province and the country lit candles as a sign of remembrance and solidarity. I am consoled by these simple but significant reminders of our connectedness, care, and resilience – I hope you are as well.
Take care of yourselves, and take care of each other.
Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray
President and Vice-Chancellor
Saint Mary’s University