Dear Students, Faculty & Staff —
I am writing this email to you with a heavy heart after learning about a tragedy that affected our Round Rock community this weekend. During what should have been a celebration of love and kindness in honor of Juneteenth, two lives were lost.
It happened on the same day our Riverbats marched along the streets of Austin at the annual Juneteenth parade. I was there with my family. It was inspiring and heartwarming, and it hurts to know that violence shattered that experience for those who were celebrating in Round Rock.
While we don’t know much about the victims right now, any tragedy in our community is something we all feel. To our students, staff, and faculty who are hurting, I encourage you to take advantage of the support and resources at ACC. For students seeking guidance, our mental health counselors are available to listen and support you. For employees, free and confidential counselors are available virtually through our Employee Assistance Program.
I have asked our Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (THRT) Campus Center and Office of Belonging & Connection to look at opportunities for hosting healing conversations. We will share more information when the details are confirmed.
In the meantime, I want you to know that ACC stands firm on its commitment to provide you with a campus and community where you are welcomed, loved, and feel safe. Juneteenth is an important day in our nation. We will continue to recognize its significance.
On Tuesday, ACC will host a day of activities and events in observance of the national holiday. Our plans have not changed. I hope you will join us. There will be measures to ensure your safety and security. Our ACC police officers will be on campus.
On Wednesday, the college will close in observance of Juneteenth.
Today, we are numbed and mourning, but we will stand together in love to show support for our fellow Riverbats and community.
Much love, russell
Russell Lowery-Hart, Ph.D. Chancellor Austin Community College District
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