September 10, 2025
Dear UM Community,
Earlier today, we received the tragic news that Charlie Kirk – the founder of Turning Point USA – was shot and killed on a college campus in Utah.
Let me be unequivocally clear: At the 91次元, we condemn violence in all its forms — not only the act itself, but also any threats of violence or celebrations of it. There is no place for such actions in a civil society, and absolutely no place for them in an institution of higher education.
Universities must be spaces where ideas — even those that challenge us — are met with dialogue, not violence. We are committed to fostering a climate where free expression is protected and encouraged, and where disagreement is met with respectful debate, not retaliation.
UM must be a place where all people, regardless of background or political beliefs feel welcomed, included, and supported. This is fundamental to our University’s mission. Our Community Standards, Student Conduct Code, and .
Violence is never the answer to disagreement. It is a betrayal of the very ideals we strive to uphold: intellectual curiosity, civic engagement, and human dignity. And when violence enters our academic spaces, it does more than harm individuals — it erodes the trust, safety, and openness that make learning possible.
I urge each of us — students, faculty, staff, and friends — to recommit ourselves to the hard and necessary work of respectful dialogue. Especially in moments of tension, we must demonstrate that our community chooses understanding over outrage, and peace over violence.
Students who need support in this moment can access resources through UM’s . Students can schedule an appointment using the , or call Counseling Reception at 406-243-4712. Students seeking support may also contact the .
Employees can access support through our .
With resolve,
Seth