Dear faculty, students and staff:

We are disturbed and saddened to learn of a recent incident at the University of Florida that has heightened fears on campus. 

An individual who is not employed or enrolled at UF walked into the African American Studies program office last week, disrupting the office and the employees working there. Faculty and staff were afraid and the police were contacted. When police arrived, the man was instructed to leave and trespassed from campus. The trespass notice has been circulated to all Liberal Arts and Sciences faculty and staff, and active trespass notices are posted at the UPD Website.

Police have conducted a security review of the building, increased patrols and will consider installing additional safeguards this week. Your safety is of paramount importance while on our campus. If you or any member of our campus community ever feels threatened or afraid, call the police immediately.

Now, it is even more important than ever to work to bring our campus community together. There is no room for threats and fear tactics on our campus. Statements and symbols of hate that hurt, intimidate or disparage others undermine our inclusivity goals. When we embrace our differences and unite as members of the UF community, we can support one another in our quest for an inclusive campus.

We are proud of the many diverse programs represented on our campus, including the UF Program in African American Studies. The faculty, staff and students are making that program one of the nation's best. 

Warm regards,

Kent Fuchs
UF President

David Richardson
Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences