A message from Chancellor Gold

This message was sent to the UNMC community by Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., on Monday, June 1.

Like many in the Omaha community, around the state and the nation, I am saddened by all of the events of the past week and most recently, the death of James Scurlock.

While I can never truly be able to comprehend the depth of pain that Black and Brown individuals and other people of color in our university community must be feeling today, my heart truly hurts along with theirs.

The events of the past week and today’s decision from the Douglas County Attorney have left many of our students, faculty and staff frustrated, confused, angry, and in search of a path forward.

For those who, including myself, are experiencing a wide range of emotions in looking for answers in what will prove to be a pivotal moment in our city’s history, I ask you to look within. Exemplify strength, resilience, curiosity and independent thinking in your search as we move forward . . . together.

I will also ask that if you choose to make your voice heard, please stay safe in speaking your truth.

Individuals in need of counseling and psychological resources can find them on the UNMC Student Wellness page and through the UNMC Employee Assistance Program. If you experience or witness acts of racism, prejudice, bias or hate on our campus, you can easily file a report online.

It is my sincerest hope that we can work through these tragic events together to create a stronger, more equitable community.


Sincerely,

Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D.
Chancellor

Dele Davies, M.D.
Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Jennifer Larsen, M.D.
Vice Chancellor for Research

Daniel Shipp, Ed.D.
Vice Chancellor for Student Success

Doug Ewald
Vice Chancellor for Business, Finance and Business Development

Michael Ash, M.D.
Vice Chancellor for Information Technology

Robert Bartee
Vice Chancellor for External Relations

Aileen Warren
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Human Resources