A Message from President Hallick

Dear Students, Staff and Faculty,

On Friday, we watched with sadness the news from Paris. The people of France are hurting and so, too, are many of us here at Pacific University and around the world. I am relieved to report that our students currently studying abroad in France and Spain have been accounted for and are safe. Having said that, nothing can justify the attacks that occurred. They are, as President Obama said, an attack on all humanity.

We search to understand how other humans could attack and kill civilians. This is a question the world has wrestled with in many forms on too many occasions.

Those that use terrorism to promote their goals often do so in the name of religion. It should be noted, however, that religious leaders have always condemned terrorism. Muslim leaders, for example, were among the first to condemn the Paris attacks. Islamic scholars maintain that ISIL is un-Islamic and does not represent the Muslim faith.People of faith across the world are united against the idea that there is any justification for terrorism.

As is often the case, some are casting blame on all Muslims for the Paris attacks, particularly on social media.  Pacific University is a pluralistic community. We come from many different cultures and faith backgrounds. It is important that we stand up against all forms of bigotry and offer support to one another during this difficult time.

If, at any time, you feel your safety is in jeopardy, please contact Campus Public Safety at 503-352-2230 (Forest Grove) or 503-352-7207 (Hillsboro). You can email CPS at cps@pacificu.edu.

For those looking for a place to talk about the tragedy in Paris, Pacific offers several venues:

Students may call the Student Counseling Center at 503-352-2191.

For faculty and staff, our Employee Assistance Program provides services through Cascade Center.  You just need to call and say you are an employee of Pacific University. 

Cascade Center

Toll Free: 800-433-2320

Portland: 503-639-3009

Salem: 503-588-0777

Our university chaplain, Rev. Dr. Chuck Currie, is also available to provide support regardless of any faith tradition you might or might not hold.

Finally, I encourage all to leave a message of condolence with the French Embassy in Washington. Messages can be left here, where we can let the people of France know that we stand with them. 

My thoughts, like yours, are with those in Paris. "Nous sommes tous des Français aujourd'hui.” (We are all French today)

In peace and with warmest regards,

Lesley M. Hallick, PhD

President