Words cannot begin to describe the range of emotions we felt this week as we witnessed the aftermath of the deaths of five young, beautiful people in the prime of their lives.

We knew University of Calgary students Lawrence Hong, Joshua Hunter and Jordan Segura as bright scholars, favourite classmates, dear friends, and as family members. It is incomprehensible how young lives so full of optimism and promise could be erased by an act of such violence and senselessness.

We also mourn the loss of Zackariah Rathwell and Kaitlin Perras – young people who so many have said were destined to do great things.

Our thoughts are also with the family of the accused, Matthew de Grood, one of our graduates. This family too has been plunged into darkness and unbelievable sadness.

As more information comes to light in the days and weeks ahead, each of us will be asking the question: Why? Our journeys of understanding and healing will follow unique paths. And yet, as a community, we share a common sense of profound loss, comfort from one another, and a search for meaning that may never come.

This long weekend, many in our community will be preparing for or writing exams, spending time with friends and family, enjoying meals together, or simply taking a much needed break from the busyness of life. This weekend is also a time to hold the families of all the young people involved in this tragedy in our hearts and in our prayers.

Over the coming days, I hope you can also find time for personal reflection. Reflect on the feelings you are experiencing. Share your feelings with others to help understand the complicated range of emotions. Avoid isolation. Listen to those in our community who may be struggling, offering patience and compassion, and make sure they are aware of all the supports available to them.

And remember, we do not stand alone.

Since I first learned of this tragedy in the early morning hours of April 15, our university has received messages of support and condolence from around the world – from our alumni, community and political leaders, members of our Board of Governors and Senate, our sister institutions, and so many, many people who just want us to know they share in our sadness, and the grief of all the families affected. I am sharing this outpouring of support with the families when I am speaking with them. Please know that your words are deeply comforting and remind us all of the true value of community.

Let us continue to honour the memory of the victims by living out the values of our university community: strength, resilience and compassion.

Stand strong.

Elizabeth Cannon, President

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Wellness Centre - MacEwan Student Centre room 370

403-210-9355 press option 2 for counseling

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MacEwan Student Centre room 370

403-210-9355 press option 2 for counseling