The horrible and senseless tragedy in Orlando last weekend has shaken all of us here at St. Francis College, across the country, and indeed around the world. While terrorist attacks, and mass murders have sadly taken place far too frequently, this attack was close to our hearts and particularly disturbing as one of our students was a victim of this brutal act of violence.

Enrique Rios transferred to St. Francis College in 2015 with hopes of completing his degree in Sociology with a concentration in Social Work. Sadly, his dreams were cut short during this vicious assault. I ask that you keep Enrique and his family in your thoughts and prayers. The College has reached out to his family to offer assistance in this extremely tragic time and I would like to remind you that the College has services available to anyone who may need counseling or grief support. Please call Dean of Students Jose Rodriguez at 718.489.3515 (during business hours) or after hours at 347.633.1374.

We will update you on memorial services as we gather additional information.

As a college steeped in the Catholic and Franciscan tradition we are a community inspired by our values of compassion, mercy, and respect for the human person. Any attack against or brutalization of any person is unjustified under any circumstance and is in opposition to living the Franciscan message of peace and all good. This particular attack was extremely disturbing as it was aimed at the LGBTQ community. St. Francis College denounces this and all acts of violence, offering its prayers and support to the LGBTQ community within our Franciscan family and across the country. Our prayers are with the family of Enrique and for all the families and friends of those who died this past Sunday morning. As Franciscans and as people who recognize that there IS good in this world, we continue to work for peace and justice, living lives as witnesses to love.