Carnegie Mellon University

March 22, 2019

Dear Members of the University Community,

I am writing to bring your attention that there has been a verdict in the Michael Rosfeld trial that has been in the news recently. Rosfeld, a former East Pittsburgh police officer, was acquitted of criminal homicide charges in the fatal shooting of Antwon Rose II, 17, last summer.

No matter our individual opinions about the outcome or the broader societal questions surrounding the trial, we can certainly empathize with the immense pain of a life lost too soon. We grieve with Antwon's family and friends and recognize the emotional toll that the recounting of these events has had on them as well as many in our community. As a result, some may wish to gather with others for support. On campus, the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion, located in the lower level of Cohon University Center, is a welcoming gathering place with staff ready to engage all community members. The Center will remain open tonight until midnight to receive anyone wanting to gather to comfort one another.  Counseling and Psychological Services is also a valuable resource for students and the Employee Assistance Program is available for faculty and staff.

As Rodney McClendon, vice president for operations, stated in his email to you last week, Carnegie Mellon University supports freedom of speech and the right to assemble and engage in non-violent social activism. We also are committed to helping ensure your safety and well-being. Therefore, if you encounter or decide to participate in a rally or demonstration, please be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Your safety is our top priority.

We will keep you informed via email or CMU-Alert if we become aware of any demonstrations that have the potential to impact our campus community.  If you are not registered for CMU-Alert or your contact information has changed, please go to www.cmu.edu/alert, click “How Can I Sign Up?” and enter your current information. As always, our University Police Department is here to help keep us safe. If you need assistance, contact University Police at 412-268-2323. If you are off campus, call Pittsburgh Police at 9-1-1.

This is an important time to remind ourselves of the university’s commitment to its core values of inclusion, empathy, compassion and the free expression of ideas. Our community believes in treating each other with respect and honoring every individual’s right to freedom of speech in a peaceful and civil manner.

Be safe,

Farnam Jahanian
President
Henry L. Hillman Chair