Dear students,

The horrific shootings in Atlanta overnight are devastating and have further heightened deep concerns about ongoing violent assaults on our Asian and Asian American communities.

While details are emerging, the loss of life comes amid other recent violent attacks on Asians and Asian Americans that have deeply affected members of our Vanderbilt community. We condemn racism and expressions of hate, bias, and discrimination in all forms.

We also have issued a statement from the university about this issue here.

Please know Vanderbilt continues to be committed to fostering a safe and welcoming community. We are working with campus partners and organizations to bring more awareness to this issue, and on ways to support our Asian and Asian American students, faculty, postdocs, and staff. We will stand together in the knowledge that we can tackle these critical issues and work to build a framework for lasting change.

If any member of our community has experienced harassment or bias, we want to know as part of our efforts to create and sustain an inclusive community. Students, faculty, staff, and postdocs should not hesitate to file a report with the Equal Opportunity and Access Office.

The trauma of these events can be overwhelming. If you need support, please consider reaching out to the Office of Student Care Coordination.

Mark Bandas, Ph.D.
Associate Provost and Dean of Students

André L. Churchwell, M.D.
Levi Watkins, Jr., M.D. Chair
Vice Chancellor of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer

William H. Robinson, Ph.D.
Vice Provost for Academic Advancement