Vice President Damon Sims shares message with student community

Dear Students:

You may know that two students at University Park died in separate incidents this past weekend, and a third student from the Harrisburg campus passed away on Saturday. Our University community can never be immune to such tragedy. But neither is it accustomed to the loss of multiple students in such a brief time.

We are all bound together at Penn State — students, faculty, and staff alike — by the various purposes and activities that bring us here. Ours is a community joined by aspiration and hope, by values larger than our individual ambitions and accomplishments.

But in these moments of deep sadness, we are drawn together even more closely by our shared sympathy for the families and friends so profoundly affected and our wish to comfort. Ours is a caring community that responds with individual acts of kindness and sincere concern. 

If you grieve, share your grief with those who support you — friends, family members, mentors. And if someone shares their grief with you, I know you will take the time to listen and help. 

And should you need even greater assistance, reach out; we are always here to provide it. The resources listed below are only a few of the many sources of support available to any student in need. Faculty or staff members will assist when you ask, or they will connect you to those colleagues better able to respond when the need is great. 

Whatever your concern may be, know that we are here to help. Please let us know how we can. 

Sincerely,

Damon Sims

Vice President for Student Affairs

RESOURCES:

Counseling and Psychological Services  (contact if you are experiencing acute emotional distress, shock, grief, or related circumstance)

Commonwealth Campus Counseling Services 

  • Penn State Crisis Line (24/7): 1-877-229-6400
  • Crisis Text Line (24/7): Text “LIONS” to 741741

Pasquerilla Spiritual Center (University Park)

Student Care and Advocacy (contact if you need logistical guidance and are unsure of how to obtain help with classes, housing, finances, etc).

Last Updated February 18, 2020