Thursday, Nov 10, 2016
Message assures campus community that Rider is committed to a safe and welcoming space for all
On Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016, President Gregory G. Dell’Omo released the following message to members of the Rider community:
Today I am writing to all of you following what has been a highly charged and rather divisive presidential election for our country. Many individuals around our nation, and right here at Rider University, are just not sure how to react, and that has led to some challenging emotions, concerns and in some instances, a sense of uneasiness. We are all processing the election results in different, personal ways.
I want to remind and assure everyone that Rider University is committed to a safe and welcoming space for all – students, faculty and staff included. We are a community of learners and educators who embrace the exchange of ideas, beliefs, perspectives and discourse, without fear of repercussion or consequence.
As reflected in our Statement of Community Values, at Rider we celebrate our differences, for they are our strength. Additionally, we share not one truth, but respect our common pursuit for understanding. These are impactful words that have guided our institution for many years. I believe this commitment to a caring and civil community is even more significant at this particular moment in our country’s history, and I encourage the entire Rider family to come together now and embrace our values of diversity and respect.
Should you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or struggling in response to the election, please utilize the many available resources at Rider to help you. The Counseling Centers on both campuses provide a broad range of services to all students, and our trained staff is ready to support you with all personal or academic difficulties. On the Lawrenceville campus, the Counseling Center is located in Zoerner House. On the Princeton campus, the Counseling Center is located in Williamson Hall.
Additionally, the staff in the Dean of Students Office on both campuses is available to help you with any issues, concerns or difficulties you may be experiencing. Our Public Safety departments also stand ready to assist our campus family any time of day or night. As indicated in the University’s Anti-Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy, the University prohibits all forms of harassment or discrimination. Any incidents of harassment or discrimination should be reported to Public Safety immediately.
As we move forward together, I urge everyone to be kind to one another, support one another, and know that while we cannot always control what is going on in the world around us, we are a strong and supportive community at Rider. I wish all of you well.
Sincerely,
Gregory G. Dell’Omo