Verdict in Synagogue Trial

Dear Members of the CMU Community,
 
Today, a jury announced a guilty verdict in the trial of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooter who murdered members of our community nearly five years ago, just up the street from our Pittsburgh campus, during Saturday morning Shabbat services for the Tree of Life — Or L'Simcha, Dor Hadash and New Light Congregations.

The events of October 27, 2018 are seared into the collective memory of our Jewish, Pittsburgh and CMU communities, and we continue to mourn the 11 lives lost. May their memories continue to be a blessing. Our hearts are also always with the survivors of that terrible day.

We recognize that, just as the verdict in a trial can reopen painful wounds, it can also be an important step in the healing process. I hope you will take a moment to reflect on our shared humanity and connect with fellow community members of all faiths to strengthen the bonds we share.

News like this can be emotionally distressing, and we encourage you to turn to those you find most helpful when you need support, such as family, friends, and community and faith leaders. For those students who would like additional support, CMU Counseling and Psychological Services offers confidential services. For faculty and staff, GuidanceResources is available through our Employee Assistance Program and provides confidential counseling 24 hours a day. Additional support and counseling is available from the 10.27 Healing Partnership, which focuses on supporting those who have experienced hate-induced trauma.

As we approach the anniversary of the shooting in October, we will continue to remember the lives that were lost and reinforce the resilience of our community in standing strong against bigotry and hate as we move forward together.

Sincerely,

Farnam Jahanian
President
Henry L. Hillman President’s Chair