This past Friday, December 14, began with most of us
going about our day as usual. We went to
class, went to work and internships, studied for finals, and connected with our
friends and colleagues. However, that
same morning, about 80 miles away at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown,
CT, 26 people, including 20 children under the age of 8, were senselessly
gunned down, their lives taken from them far too soon.
Last night, about 200 members of the Hofstra
community came together at a candlelight vigil outside of the Student Center to
show their solidarity for the victims of Sandy Hook and their families, and to
support one another as they worked through their grief, shock, and anger in
response to this tragedy. Despite the
damp and chilly evening, attendees were warmed by the prayer led by Catholic
Campus Minister, Bridget McCormack, and the words sung by Hofstra’s
Sigma’cappella group, who closed with
words of encouragement for the community: “Lean on me, when you’re not
strong. I’ll be your friend; I’ll help
you carry on.” 
As we
continue to move through the holiday season, I would encourage you all to count
your blessings and let your friends and loved ones know how much you care about
them, because life and relationships are precious things.
Students who may need some extra support in dealing
with this tragedy are encouraged to make an appointment with Student Counseling Services by calling
(516) 463-6791.
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