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After Monday’s tragic event at the Table Mesa King Soopers, I know many of us are feeling a variety of emotions. Many of us are shaken, upset, angry, scared and heartbroken. Grief can show up in various ways. Whatever you’re feeling is normal, and you are not alone. I am here for you and stand with those who have been affected by the devastating act of violence that our community has experienced.

Traumatic events like this can affect us at different times, in various and unexpected ways, and will evolve as we continue to process and learn more details. I strongly encourage you to take care of yourselves, each other and to use resources as you need them.

Take care of yourselves

It can take time for some of us to process and heal from a traumatic event. Please make it a priority to take care of your overall health and well-being over the upcoming weeks.

Make space in your day to check in and acknowledge how you’re feeling. Do so without judgment and know that whatever you are feeling is OK. Reach out and connect with someone you trust to share how you’re feeling. Find productive ways to manage stress and take care of your basic needs. Do your best to sleep and rest, eat regular and balanced meals, stay hydrated and find time for physical activity.

Look out for each other

Knowing that many in our community have been impacted by this week’s event, please be kind and considerate to those around you. Check in and stay in touch with your friends, classmates and neighbors. This has been a difficult year already, and it is important that we show up and care for each other.

Use campus resources

As I mentioned before, traumatic events can affect us at different times and in various ways. Campus resources are available to you throughout the year, and I strongly encourage you to use them when you need them, whether it’s this week or later in the semester.

• can be reached at 303-492-2277 (24/7 phone line). Their e-Let’s Talk service is available Monday-Friday from 10-11 a.m. and 3-4 p.m. No appointment is necessary, this is a virtual drop-in service with a clinician.
• The Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) can be reached at 303-492-8855 (24/7 phone line). Their e-Ask an Advocate service is available Tuesdays from 2-3 p.m., and more times will be announced soon. 
• Student Support and Case Management (SSCM) can be reached at 303-492-7348. SSCM assists students who are experiencing distress from events such as personal or family crisis. SSCM works collaboratively to support academic success and emotional well-being.

Review a full list of resources and support for our campus community during this time.

Buffs, I am here for you and we will get through this together. Please take care of yourselves and each other, and ask for help if you need it.

JB Banks
Acting Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs
Dean of Students and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs