In the email sent Sept. 11 to students, faculty and staff, Ashland University President Jon Parrish Peede addressed the tragic events of the past month. His statement was shared on the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.

The statement reads:

“Dear Ashland University Students, Faculty and Staff,

From the murder of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte train, to peaceful demonstrations turning into deadly political unrest in Nepal, to the assassination of Christian conservative Charlie Kirk in Utah, to another school shooting, this time in Colorado, it has been a month of violence and tragedy. And, it has taken place during a time when we reflect on the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Let’s take this moment to renew our commitment to civil discourse, to be respectful of one another at all times and to offer kindness across our community. At Ashland, you can hold fast to your core values and expand your viewpoint by peacefully navigating differences of opinion. One of the greatest virtues of higher education is uniting people of tolerance through the development of their minds.

These evil events also serve as a reminder to always lean into our Christian heritage and values. As Josh Sumpter, our new university chaplain, so eloquently put it, ‘Violence, in any form, wounds the soul, and we stand together to reject division and seek God’s guidance in these troubled times.’

Respectfully yours,

President Jon Parrish Peede.”