In response to the attack at Pulse, an LGBT nightclub in Orlando, Florida, Chancellor Randy Woodson and Raleigh’s LGBT Center released statements Monday offering condolences and support.
“On behalf of the NC State family, our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims, their families and friends,” Woodson said in his statement. “Please also let me offer condolences to anyone in our community personally affected by this tragic violence.”
Woodson went on to remind students and faculty of locations on campus where they can receive professional support from university staff. The Counseling Center is available from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays, and the GLBT Center is open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Students can also find additional phone numbers to use, if necessary, on the chancellor’s website.
“As many of you know from social media posts the LGBT Center of Raleigh held a vigil last night, and other observances are scheduled throughout the week,” said officials from the LGBT Center in an announcement issued Monday. For more information on future events, please visit Equality NC’s website.
These responses come in the wake of the deadliest mass shooting in American history, where a gunman executed 49 people, excluding himself, and wounded 53 at a crowded, gay community nightclub in Orlando early Sunday, according to The New York Times.
“As we all strive to make any sense of this horrific violence, please remember to take care of yourselves, take care of those around you, and be especially mindful to look after other members of our Pack who might be hurting,” Woodson said. “Finally, please do not hesitate to contact any of the many caring staff members at NC State who are here for you.”
The GLBT Center and the Counseling Center will be working together as needed to handle any support needs.
“This is a time that we need to stand together as one given the impact targeting an already challenged community,” said Justine Hollingshead, chief of staff for Mike Mullen, the vice chancellor and dean of the Division of Academic and Student Affairs.
