Message of Support to the Aggie Community
General (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh IIIInterim President
October 13, 2023
Members of the Aggie Family,
My heart is broken by the horrible violence in Israel and Gaza. The inexcusable terrorist attack on innocent civilians was shocking, and escalated violence in the region will cost even more innocent lives. War, even when justified, is an ugly thing.
I will continue to pray for the safe release of the hostages. I will also continue to pray for an end to this violent chapter and for lasting peace in the Middle East. Most importantly, I will pray for a world where people and nations can address and resolve their differences without standing behind a gun. Regardless of the faith you practice, or whether you practice any faith at all, I hope you will join me in that aspiration.
For all members of our faculty, staff and student body affected by the current conflict in any way - emotionally, psychologically, or through friends or family connections - Texas A&M is here for you, and we have a variety of resources available to anyone who needs additional support:
- For our students, University Health Services offers individual and group counseling, including virtual options and Student Assistance Services, an office within Student Life in the Division of Student Affairs, provides additional resources for students at all campuses.
- For our faculty and staff, the Employee Assistance Program offers free and confidential counseling.
- And for our international students and scholars needing guidance, support and resources, I encourage you to connect with International Student & Scholar Services.
For anyone who lost friends or loved ones to this violence, you have my heartfelt condolences, and I will do everything in my power to ensure this campus remains a safe place for people of all beliefs to live, work and learn.
Let us stand together in solidarity and offer comfort and compassion to those who are hurting. Ultimately, peace starts with each one of us. Its foundation is the respect that I believe is the birthright of every human being. Let's make sure every member of our Aggie Family feels that respect each and every day.
r/mark
General (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III, Interim President