In what has become an all-too-frequent occurrence, a series of suicide bombings killed more than 300 people in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday. The University mourns with the people of Sri Lanka in the wake of these heinous anti-Christian attacks and condemn those responsible for this senseless targeted violence. Religious hatred, bigotry and murder have no place in our global community, and Penn State supports the right of people of all faiths to freely practice their religion in peace.
Acts such as this and the recent attacks in New Zealand are an affront to Penn State’s core values of diversity and inclusion. Our office of Student Affairs is again reaching out to those in our community who are most closely impacted by the Sri Lanka attacks, to offer support and assistance. As a University, our continuing mission is to bring together people of different origins, races, orientations and creeds in an atmosphere that celebrates people’s differences and promotes the free exchange of ideas. Though our hearts are heavy with the loss of innocent lives, we resolve to continue our efforts in promoting and maintaining a welcoming community for all.
For members of the Penn State community who may need assistance or who have been deeply affected by the tragic events of Easter Sunday, University resources are available at the following places:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) are available at each of Penn State’s Commonwealth Campuses.
- The Penn State Crisis Line (1-877-229-6400) is a 24/7 toll-free service staffed by licensed professionals available to all Penn Staters at University Park and Commonwealth Campuses
- Community member can also text the 24/7 Crisis Text Line by texting “LIONS” to 741741.
- The Penn State Employee Assistance Program, through the EAP+Work/Life program, offers short-term counseling from licensed EAP professionals, by phone, email or in person to help employees better cope with personal, family and work issues. EAP also offers access to Personal Health Advocates, who can help navigate healthcare and insurance systems, efficiently and dependably. More information is available at https://hr.psu.edu/health-matters/employee-assistance-program.