From President Shepard: 'Please look out for each other'

Western Washington University President Bruce Shepard sent the following message to the WWU community Friday afternoon:

As you may be aware, a tragic school shooting took place earlier today at Marysville-Pilchuck High School. Police report that a student gunman opened fire in the school cafeteria this morning and killed one student before turning the gun on himself. News reports indicate that as many as four other people were wounded in the shooting. I know I speak for the entire Western Washington University community in stating that Marysville is in our thoughts during this challenging time.

This tragedy impacts our Western family, as we have students and employees who are from Marysville and many alumni who live there. Our hearts go out to all of them.

This is also a reminder that we who are Western are committed to looking out for one another.

The health and safety of every single Western student and employee is important. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, make sure to be looking out for each other. If you see someone who needs support, reach out to them. 

If today’s tragedy or any other occurrence is troubling you, I encourage students to contact WWU Counseling Services and employees to connect with the WWU Employee Assistance Program.

Please take care!

Bruce

Bruce Shepard
President
Western Washington University