I invite all members of the Northeastern community to join me in the Curry Center Ballroom at 4 pm today for a vigil in support of those who have been affected by the tragedy at the Boston Marathon.

Earlier this morning, I visited with three Northeastern students, as well as two members of our parent community, who were injured yesterday. Thankfully, none of them has a life-threatening injury, and all are being looked after very well.

If you have information regarding any members of the Northeastern community who may be injured, please contact Northeastern’s WeCare program at wecare@neu.edu or (617) 373-4384.

Northeastern students in need of any type of assistance may also contact the WeCare program, and Northeastern faculty and staff should contact the Employee Assistance Program at (877) 739-3989.

I also convey my heartfelt thanks to the students, faculty colleagues, and staff members who helped in the response at the explosion sites. We’ve learned of dozens of Northeastern students and employees who performed acts of bravery, assisted the injured, and helped restore calm in the crucial moments following this horrific incident.

Let me also express my appreciation to our dedicated Public Safety staff, who not only kept our campus safe and secure, but also assisted people and authorities at the Marathon site.

To all who have given their time and effort under these most difficult circumstances: our university community and our city are grateful to you.

In times of hardship, it’s especially important that we join together to help and support each other. You already have risen to the occasion – and we’ll do so as a community again today.

I hope to see you this afternoon.
Sincerely,

Joseph E. Aoun
President