Statements Regarding the Feb. 3 Incident During a Black Student Union Event

Friday, Feb. 4, 2022

Rockhurst University Companions,

After last night’s racist and violent incident involving the virtual panel discussion hosted by BSU, we are heartened today by the many expressions of care and concern for our students and others who were affected. We also acknowledge that there is a desire for action and concrete ways to not only support our students but to work for real and lasting racial justice and equality on our campus and in our community and nation.

Here’s a brief update on our response thus far.

• A response team met last night and again this morning to ensure we are extending the appropriate support to all involved, including outreach to students, employees, board members, families and alumni.
• Rockhurst departments of security and computer services are working closely with local and federal law enforcement agencies to do everything possible to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. The investigation is in the early stages and all viable leads are being followed.
• Early next week there will be more information regarding how we can demonstrate solidarity and show collective action.

For those who seek additional ways to make a positive impact, we offer the suggestion to purposefully seek out and patronize local Black-owned businesses. Our student leaders chose this as the topic of their panel discussion and this not only shows our support of them, but also provides an economic boost to our community.

Hubert Benitez, Cindy Schmersal, Matt Quick

Thursday, Feb. 3, 2022

I am writing to you tonight to let you know about a horrible incident that took place during a virtual meeting hosted by our Black Student Union as part of Black History Month. The meeting, a panel discussion featuring local Black business owners, was invaded by individuals hurling racial epithets and derogatory statements.  

We are appalled that our students, colleagues and community members were subjected to this senseless act of violence, and we condemn this action in the strongest possible terms. There is no place in our society, in our community, or on our Rockhurst University campus for such unspeakable acts of hate. 

Tomorrow we will have more time to talk about how to move forward, but tonight I want to assure you that we are reaching out to our students, community panelists and guests to assure them of our care, our support, and our concern. The Rockhurst University security department and computer services have already begun an investigation into this incident, and will work with external authorities, to do everything in our power to learn who has committed this atrocity and to seek justice. 

No act of hate can divide us if we refuse to let it do so. We stand with our students, and we stand together as a community. 

Thomas B. Curran, S.J. 
President