Dear Barnard Community,

As we near the end of what has been an extremely difficult year, we write to offer support in the wake of the awful and unsettling event that took place on the steps of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine yesterday afternoon. Although we don’t have all the details yet, we do know that at the end of a holiday concert an armed man opened fire into the air and was fatally shot by police nearby. Thankfully, there were no other injuries.

We understand how disturbing this news may be, especially since it occurred in our neighborhood, at a house of worship, and because people in our community were in attendance at the concert.

Please know that we are here to offer support. Students can call Furman Counseling Center at 212-854-2092 for consultation and referral to counseling resources in their local community. Faculty and staff can make use of our Employee Assistance Program through Humana at 800-448-4358.

A hallmark of the Barnard community is our ability to come together and support one another. Please remember, as colleagues and as friends, we are here for each other in time of need. We wish you all continued health and wellness in these final days of the semester.

Our Very Best,

Provost Bell and Dean Grinage