From President Akande: One Step in a Long Journey

Dear Champlain community,

Many of us listened live yesterday as jurors rendered their verdict on the charges against Derek Chauvin, who was on trial for the killing of George Floyd last May. As I process my own personal reactions to the news, I recognize that the trial and the events leading up to it have provoked a range of emotions and perspectives in our community. 

Yesterday’s verdict was an affirmation that Black Lives Matter, yet it was only one step in a very long journey toward equity and social justice for all. This was one decision in one case with one victim, but it delivered a message that went beyond one tragic situation. The message was one of hope; that in America, truth and racial justice are valued, and those who commit such egregious and reprehensible actions will finally be held accountable. The 12 jurors who represent all of us spoke truth to power. That’s what makes yesterday’s rulings a major move forward for this country.   

We acknowledge and mark this step, knowing full well that there is a long road ahead of us. Even in the midst of the news following yesterday’s verdict, there was another shooting and loss of life. As painful as that is, it underscores the point that we have many more miles to go.  

Let us take this moment to pause, to reflect on the importance of what has happened, to strengthen ourselves for the journey ahead, and to care for each other along the way. I am encouraged and inspired by the steps we’ve taken on our own journey to centralize and activate our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and justice at Champlain.  

I recognize that some community members may be struggling and seeking support. I particularly want to express solidarity with people of color in our community at this time. I remind you that we have resources available to students and employees. Our Student Affairs team will be hosting drop-in sessions for students, and students are also encouraged to reach out to our Counseling team at (802) 865-5731 or counselingcenter@champlain.edu. Employees seeking support are encouraged to contact the College’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), E4Health at (800) 828-6025, 24 hours a day or https://eap.ndbh.com/. 

Additional support services:  

• Champlain Student On-Call Counselor: (802) 865-5745
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1(800) 273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line: Text Home to 741741
• Campus Public Safety: (802) 865-6465
• Howard Center First Call (Crisis): (802) 488-7777

Sincerely,
Benjamin Ola. Akande, Ph.D.
President, Champlain College