Today's tragic events Today has been a profoundly difficult day with two different senseless acts of violence that have shaken our country.

September 10, 2025
Morrill Hall sits on the south end of the University of Nevada, Reno quad, a large lawn area surrounded by trees and a walking path.

Today's tragic events

Today has been a profoundly difficult day with two different senseless acts of violence that have shaken our country.

September 10, 2025

Dear Wolf Pack Family,

Today has been a profoundly difficult day with two different senseless acts of violence that have shaken our country.

We are deeply saddened by the tragic shooting that claimed the life of Charlie Kirk during a campus event at Utah Valley University. This marks another painful moment in a time of increasing division and unrest in our country.

We also grieve for the students and families affected by the shooting at Evergreen High School in Colorado. At least three students were critically injured. A community mourns the loss of young life, and our entire nation is reeling from yet another school tragedy.

These events are stark reminders of the challenging times we face—not just as a nation, but as a global society. The frequency and intensity of violence in public spaces, especially educational institutions, weigh heavily on all of us. In addition, the worst impulses of an already over-heated political climate have resulted in a shocking event that has shaken the democratic ideals of our nation. It is normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, afraid or even numb in the wake of such news.

Please know that you are not alone. The University offers a range of support services for students, faculty, and staff. University Counseling Services, as well as the Downing Counseling Clinic is available to help students. Faculty and staff can find assistance through the Employee Assistance Program. The University’s LiveWell Program is also available to help prioritize your well-being and navigate campus resources.

We encourage you to reach out, talk to someone, and take care of yourselves and each other. In times like these, community matters more than ever.

What is needed at this moment is the realization that from tragedy we can still find wisdom, and that from our darkest times we are still capable of stepping into humanity’s finest light. Let us do this together, standing in compassion, resilience, and hope.

Sincere Regards,

Brian Sandoval
President

Jeffrey S. Thompson
Executive Vice President and Provost

Heather Speed
Vice President of Student Affairs

September 10, 2025