To the University community:
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently raised the national alert status to the number two level, orange, indicating a high risk of terrorist attacks. This was a precautionary measure based upon intelligence reports. Understandably, many in our community are feeling increased anxiety because of this news and the possibility of military action in Iraq.
Thankfully, there have been no specific threats involving Syracuse University. Nonetheless, we must take an appropriate response to this general alert. To this end, I want to make a few points.
First: I want to assure you that we are prepared. From events such as Pan Am 103, the 1998 Labor Day Storm and 9/11, to name a few, SU has gained considerable experience in managing difficult situations. And since the tragedy of 9/11, the University, like other institutions across the country, has maintained a heightened state of vigilance. We have open lines of communication with law enforcement and emergency management agencies and have carefully reviewed and adjusted our safety and security protocols.
Second: In response to the heightened alert status, authorities are asking the public to remain alert and be aware of anything that might be considered out of the ordinary. If you see someone or something that looks suspicious, contact the Department of Public Safety at 443-2224 or 711. Security works best when it works collaboratively.
Third: Constructive conversation is part of the academic enterprise. Engage in dialogue about what's going on with a friend, a roommate, a co-worker. Attend the next University Forum presentation, Feb. 27. Engage in a classroom or office discussion. Learn from current events, share with each other, and talk out issues of concern.
Fourth: Go on about your daily life. Try to maintain your routines. It is important to be aware of what's transpiring on the world stage, but it is detrimental to be so concerned that it starts to damage your health and well-being. There are many resources of which you can take advantage-the Counseling Center, Hendricks Chapel and the Employee Assistance Program, among others. For a list of contact numbers and additional resources, click here.
I am very confident in the preparedness of Syracuse University. We are seeing some tough times right now, but we'll get through these together.
As events warrant, we will provide updated information through Broadcast Hot News and postings on the University Web site, http://www.syr.edu.
Sincerely,
Kenneth A. Shaw
