It is with profound sadness that we have learned that several members of our University of Alberta community on Flight PS752 died last night in Iran.

I want to express my heartfelt grief. Words simply cannot express the loss I know we all are feeling. On behalf of the University of Alberta, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, colleagues and loved ones of the victims of this tragedy. You have the sincerest sympathy and support of all those on campus.

This is a devastating loss for the University of Alberta. Ours is a closely interconnected community, and we grieve with everyone touched by this terrible loss— friends, classmates, roommates, professors, students, mentors, and colleagues. The University of Alberta’s flags will be lowered to half-mast in recognition of this tragedy.

Counselling and other services are available to students, staff, faculty, and others in our community. I encourage anyone impacted to reach out and seek the support you need during this time.

The University of Alberta also wishes to respect the families’ privacy at this time and stands ready to provide whatever support and assistance we can.

David H. Turpin

President and Vice-Chancellor