Dear Friends,

It is with a heavy heart that I write to share my profound grief and deep concern following yesterday’s horrific events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High.

I am devastated by the senseless loss of life, including at least one student who had been just admitted to UF on Friday. As I write this, that student’s name has not been officially released, but we do know she was planning to attend UF. My heart goes out to her family and to all the families and friends of those who were killed or injured.

We have 283 Douglas High alumni currently enrolled at UF. Our dean of students, Dr. Heather White, sent each student a message last night expressing her support and encouraging those with the need to seek counseling or assistance through the UF Counseling and Wellness Center.

As we reach out to support these alumni, I am deeply saddened by the knowledge of how this terrible shooting will affect so many members of our community. More than 4,600 students from Broward County are enrolled at UF, more than any other county, and nearly 22,000 UF alumni live in this area.

This event will be felt deeply by our Gator Nation, but we are resolved to offer any support and assistance that is needed. We stand with the students, families, teachers and leaders of Douglas High, and with all of you in Broward County. As we work to support students on our campus, we wish you the strength, hope and love that will help you through your own grief.

Finally, I encourage all of you to support your fellow Gators, and to reach out to any others who may need your comfort and assistance.

With caring thoughts,

Kent Fuchs
President 
University of Florida