Dear Students, Faculty & Staff —
I am writing you with a heavy heart. We are carrying the weight of a tragic shooting that took place downtown early Sunday morning. Families are grieving, and our community is hurting. It is a painful reminder of how quickly violence can disrupt the places where people gather and connect.
When something like this happens, we all feel it. Some members of our ACC community may have been directly impacted. Even if you were not there or did not know the victims personally, this kind of violence can shake our sense of safety and weigh on our hearts.
If you need someone to talk to, I hope you will reach out.
Students — ACC’s mental health counselors are here to provide confidential support and guidance. In addition to our on-campus counseling services, ACC is expanding access to free, 24/7 virtual mental health support through TimelyCare. You can find more information and support at austincc.edu/counseling.
Employees — Our Employee Assistance Program offers free and confidential counseling support for employees and their family members. If you need time or flexibility, please talk with your supervisor.
Your safety matters deeply to us. Our ACC Police officers will continue to maintain a visible presence at every campus. If you ever need help, there is always a campus police station, or you can call our police directly at 512-223-1231.
In moments like this, we are reminded that ACC is more than a College — we are a community. We care for one another, and we show up with compassion. In the days ahead, I encourage you to check in with one another. A simple message, a conversation, or a moment of kindness can make a difference.
Please give yourself and those around you grace.
Much love,
russell
Russell Lowery-Hart, Ph.D.
Chancellor
Austin Community College District
Back to Top