Niner Nation Rises: A Message from Chancellor Dubois

Dear Niner Nation:

Each passing day since the tragic events of April 30 has left its own imprint on the collective consciousness of Niner Nation. We shared disbelief and sadness as we learned of the loss of Reed Parlier and Riley Howell. We united physically and virtually in memory of them and in support of Rami, Sean, Emily, and Drew through the candlelight vigil, in-person and online donations of time and resources, countless supportive words and texts, and the permanent Niner Nation Remembers website.

At commencement this past weekend, we rose together in celebration as Emily and nearly 4,800 other Niners graduated, and we rose together in honor as the families of Reed and Riley courageously took the stage to accept Degrees in Memoriam on their behalf. We will continue to rise together to meet the challenges and opportunities awaiting us in the days ahead.

While I’m grateful for the many ways Niner Nation has come together since April 30, it is important to acknowledge that our personal experiences are unique to each of us. Many of you have shared with me and with each other your own stories from the night of the attack and the hours and days that followed. Many of these stories are uplifting and affirming of our response, while others reflect the fear and confusion the attack inspired. Every story deserves to be heard.

As part of our after-action review, we have established a webform through which members of Niner Nation can share their own experiences and suggestions. Each submission will be provided to independent reviewers and considered internally to ensure your safety and well-being remain our top priorities. We can and should be proud of what we did right, but we also need to examine and learn from what we must do better.

Niner Nation has united together, and now we will rise together. Rising together requires acknowledging and understanding what we have endured as a community and as individuals. Rising together requires reaching out when we need help or encouragement, and lending strength when we have some to spare. Rising together requires embracing our grief and each other, allowing the memories of April 30 to propel us forward one step at a time. Niner Nation rises, but we will never forget.

Philip L. Dubois

Chancellor, UNC Charlotte