A Message to the Oglethorpe Community

Dear Oglethorpe Community, 

Almost a year ago, the murder of George Floyd sparked an intense period of increased awareness and discussion about the crisis of race-based, specifically anti-Black, violence in America. We are still in a period of turmoil, as evidenced by the recent killings of Adam Toledo and Daunte Wright and the palpable tensions associated with testimony in the Derek Chauvin trial. 

At this moment, we, as senior leaders of Oglethorpe University, want to affirm our unwavering commitment to advancing racial equity and social justice.  As members of the Oglethorpe Community, we must foster civil and compassionate discussion codified in our Campus Civility Statement. We must create spaces capable of holding the myriad emotions that exist, provide resources for healthy coping practices, and work towards creating a culture of inclusivity and equity.  This type of work is not easy, and yet it is vitally important.

The Offices of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Campus Life and Global Education will host a series of virtual community listening sessions open to faculty, staff, and students, to discuss their reflections on and reactions to the trial once the verdict is released. These virtual community gatherings are important, especially while we are in the Petrel Pause and cannot meet in person. Lastly, we have also compiled a resource list for students, staff, and faculty, and those who will be able to provide support during this time.

Our commitment to addressing the systemic and institutional issues at Oglethorpe does not end with this trial. We are committed to continuing to build a just campus and championing those efforts that will result in an inclusive community of learners. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Nick Ladany
President

Dr. Laura Renée Chandler 
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion