President’s Message: Response to D.C. Events

To the Meredith community,

As members of a college that promotes civic engagement and encourages voting and other forms of participation in democracy, we at Meredith deplore the events that unfolded in Washington, D.C., yesterday while Congress was meeting to certify the Electoral College results of the 2020 Presidential election. It is shocking and appalling to see people with guns storm the U.S. Capitol building in an attempt to overturn election results and thwart the democratic process and the will of the American people. 

I recognize that the series of events triggered by these unlawful actions may cause a tumult of emotions — fear, anxiety, anger, disbelief. I know many of you may also be feeling distracted from your work today. Please do what you need to do to take care of yourselves and your mental health and make use of your Meredith College support system. For students, the Counseling Center and College Programs staff are sources of support. For employees, this support may come from trusted colleagues.

I have faith in our community, in the power of education to increase understanding and even dignity, and in the promise of democratic freedom that the United States has symbolized around the world. May that promise be restored and may we live in peace.

Sincerely,
Jo Allen, ’80
President