Community Message

Dear Wheaton community,

The senseless and horrific tragedy in Colorado over the weekend forces us, once again, to grapple with the reality of hatred, bias and violence. At such a moment, we would like to remind everyone that Wheaton is committed to being an inclusive community that supports the health and well-being of all students, faculty and staff. 

Student leaders and the Center for Social Justice and Community Impact planned a vigil on December 7, 2022, in response to gun violence nationally and around the world. Please keep an eye out for more information after the Thanksgiving break. This event is intended to provide a space for us to gather as a community and reflect on our shared commitment to combat hate and bias and create a stronger sense of belonging within Wheaton.

Meanwhile, if you are a member or an ally of our LGBTQ+ community and are feeling overwhelmed or traumatized by this tragic event, please remember that support is available. Although Wheaton students will be on Thanksgiving break, counseling services are still within reach. 

The Mental Health Support Line will continue to be available to all enrolled students 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, no matter where you are in the world. This is a crisis line for students to call and utilize at any time when the Counseling Center staff are unavailable, even during breaks when the college is closed. This service is free and available in languages other than English. Call the Counseling Center at 508-286-3905 and press 1 when the voicemail message begins. 

While not ongoing therapy, the hotline offers immediate support and can help create a plan for next steps. Faculty and staff are also encouraged to utilize this hotline as a consultation resource in urgent situations when the Counseling Center staff are unavailable.

Please do not hesitate to reach out for support if you or someone you know is in need.

Take care of yourself and others,

Lenny Breton
Director of Social Justice and Community Impact 

Darnell Parker
Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students