|
In an open letter to the Clarion University community, President Karen Whitney shares her thoughts about the recent election and Clarion University's response:
Dear Clarion University Family,
Even though many would say that our recent national elections were intense and conflicted, I have been pleased to see our Clarion University community actively and respectfully engaged in that process during the past few months.
Our faculty have academically engaged students through their teaching and research. Our students registered to vote in great numbers as a way to particulate in the civic life of our community.
Many of you took the opportunity to learn about the issues and the candidates, to engage in spirited discussions, and to cast your vote on Election Day.
Some people are pleased with the outcome of Tuesday’s election; others are not. That is the way our democracy works.
Now it is time to set aside our political differences and focus on all that unites us. By working together, we can make our University, our Commonwealth, and our nation, stronger and better for us all.
Our University’s core values are clear. We expect every member of our campus community to act with integrity, treat others with civility, and take responsibility for the safety and well-being of ourselves and those around us.
No one should be made to feel unwelcome, or unsafe, because of who they are or what they believe. That is not who we are at Clarion University.
Times of change can be unsettling, but many supporting and helpful resources are available to our students and employees. If you are in need of support, I encourage you to seek support by contacting one or more of the university services :
Human Resources: 393-2235Center for Leadership & Involvement: 393-2714
Center for Wellness: 393-2255
Residence Life Programs: 393-2352
As our nation enters a time of transition, I call on every member of our campus community to be respectful of one another and to work for the common good.
My hope is that over the remainder of this semester and into the spring, we will search for the "teachable moment" and organize talks, discussions and dialogues that will deepen our understanding and appreciation for these times that we are living.
Go Eagles!
Karen
Dr. Karen M. WhitneyPresident
Clarion University
840 Wood Street
Clarion, PA 16214
814-393-2220
814-393-1801