University of Maryland News

University Statement Following NIU Tragedy

In light of the tragedy and loss of life at Northern Illinois University yesterday, the thoughts and condolences of the University of Maryland family are with NIU students, faculty and staff.

At such a moment, it is worth reminding all in our community that we take your safety and well-being very seriously. We have an emergency operations plan in place, available for your review. We also offer mental health resources to our students through the Counseling Center and for faculty and staff through our University Health Center.

Communicating quickly with the campus community in an emergency is critical to effective response. We use a variety of methods to reach students, faculty and staff, including text messages, e-mail, campus-wide voice mail, an outdoor warning siren and the University's Web site. If you have not yet registered for our text message alert system, please go to www.alert.umd.edu and sign up, or send a text message to 411911, key word UMD.

I encourage you to use these resources and familiarize yourself with our plan.

Sincerely,
Linda M. Clement
Vice President for Student Affairs