Message from the President: Against Asian American and Pacific Islander Hate Crimes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, March 19, 2021
Contact: Angela Harrington
Vice President,
Communications and External Relations
973-200-1098
Angela-Harringt@BerkeleyCollege.edu

OfficeofPresident-Logo_2020.jpgDear Berkeley College Community,

Berkeley College believes that protecting the public against hate crimes, bigotry, and racism in all its forms is our nation’s duty as well as the responsibility of each one of us. We are troubled by the display of hatred targeted at the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. Berkeley College remains committed to eliminating racism and hate. Such disturbing acts cannot and will not be tolerated. 

Berkeley College is committed to providing a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all members of our community. Confidential counseling and support services are provided through our Student Development & Campus Life and Human Resources departments. I encourage you to avail yourself of these resources if you need assistance so we can help you evaluate the multiple ways in which Berkeley College can respond and provide support.

Any students who believe they have experienced discrimination, harassment, or bias, should immediately contact Robert Maguire, Assistant Vice President of Public Safety and Emergency Management, at 973-200-1172, or by email at Robert-Maguire@BerkeleyCollege.edu.

Students can also contact the Equal Opportunity Officer for Students, LaTysha Gaines, Assistant Vice President of Student Development & Campus Life, at 973-368-9857, or by email at LaTysha-Gaines@BerkeleyCollege.edu.

Similarly, Berkeley College faculty and staff who believe they have experienced discrimination, harassment, or bias should contact Karen Carpentieri, Vice President of Human Resources, at 862-437-8532, or by email at kjc@BerkeleyCollege.edu. Berkeley Associates can also submit reports confidentially through the Berkeley Ethics Hotline at Berkeley365>SharePoint>Human Resources Policies>, or by calling 866-294-8668.

Strong public policy aimed at zero tolerance and comprehensive education in K-12 schools, as well as institutions of higher education, will help to build a safer, more open-minded society. Our curricular and co-curricular programming at Berkeley College reflect an inclusive approach to civil dialogue and teaching and learning that raises awareness of bias. We are steadfast in continuing this vital work.

These moments must lead us to meaningful action and also provide an inflection point to renew our commitments to work together toward justice and inclusion for our nation and world.

Michael J. Smith
President of Berkeley College

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