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Tech President Responds To Illinois Campus Shootings

February 15, 2008

Media General News Service

At Virginia Tech, campus officials have taken no additional security measures in the wake of yesterday's shooting at Northern Illinois University, but they are asking students to keep an eye on each other for signs of emotional distress brought on by the shootings.

Tech President Charles W. Steger also posted a letter to his campus on the university's Web site, vt.edu.

The letter reads:

"As I write, events are unfolding at Northern Illinois University where a mass shooting occurred. Already we know that more than a dozen are wounded. This horrific news will certainly bring to mind the hurt, pain and trauma we experienced less than a year ago.

"I have sent my condolences and offer of assistance to the president of NIU. Our university community was bolstered and comforted by the outpouring of support from campuses around the nation and the world. I am sure that expressions of support from the Virginia Tech community will mean much to that now suffering campus community.

"We should take this opportunity now to reach out and help each other. I am convinced that our university community coped because of our care and concern for every member of the extended Hokie family. I ask you to look out for each other and seek help through university services if necessary.

"Students can call Cook Counseling Center anytime at (540) 231-6557. Employees call anytime to 866-725-0602.

"I wish you the best."