Dear Redbirds,
I write today, hoping that you and your families are staying safe and healthy. The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing all of us to face unprecedented obstacles and navigate through previously unheard of challenges. It is especially troubling that this international crisis comes at a time when national racial tensions seem at an all-time high. I know many of you are hurting and are searching for answers to the almost incomprehensible violence that is shaking the very foundation of humanity. The horrific and preventable deaths of Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Tamir Rice, Freddie Gray, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and so many others has led to protests and demonstrations sweeping our nation and is tearing at each and every one of us.