Western community comes together in support of Michigan State University

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Hundreds of students, faculty and staff gathered together Wednesday for a candlelight vigil in the Bernhard Center in the wake of a violent attack at Michigan State University that left three students dead and five others with critical injuries.

"It's amazing to see the support and love in this room for the Spartan family, and it really shows how our University can come together to be there for the community around us as well," said Hannah Marcon, student body vice president, before initiating a moment of silence for all those impacted by the tragedy.

The vigil was a collaboration between the Western Student Association (WSA) and the University's Division of Student Affairs.

"As a campus, we want to offer our deep solace to those suffering at MSU," said WMU President Edward Montgomery. "Our hearts are heavy with the weight of such loss. It will take time to process these unthinkable events and come to terms with them. Let's each do what we can to support each other during that time."

Western has a wide array of services available on campus for those in need of support. Counseling Services at Sindecuse Health Center offers free counseling to all students as well as a new Mind Spa, which offers a space for mindfulness and relaxation activities. Broncos also have access to teletherapy and a 24/7 crisis hotline through Uwill. Faculty and staff can receive confidential counseling and referral services through the Employee Assistance Program.

"I'm really proud of the way the Bronco nation has shown compassion through this tragedy," Montgomery said.

His thoughts were echoed by Cheng Kidd Sun, WSA president. "Today we showed we stand together. We can unite together. We as a campus community can move forward. Let's do something."

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