Dr. Kaplan: Our Thoughts Are With the Bristol (Conn.) Police Department

In a message to the University community, Chancellor Kaplan addressed the shooting of three Bristol, Conn., police officers, reinforcing the University’s support for law enforcement professionals who selflessly devote their lives to keeping us safe. "We stand with them today – and always," he wrote.

October 13, 2022

Dear Members of the University Community,

It has been heartbreaking to learn about the two police officers who were killed, and a third who was injured, in the line of duty late last night in Bristol, Conn. It is always upsetting when law enforcement professionals are injured or killed in the line of duty, and it is particularly distressing when a tragedy like this directly impacts a nearby police department where some of our graduates serve with great distinction.

When an incident like this occurs, it reminds us of the inherent dangers law enforcement professionals face each and every day as they serve and protect our communities with courage and bravery. Alumni of our Henry C. Lee College work across the state, including with the Bristol Police Department, around the region, and throughout the country, dedicating their lives to making an important impact. It is incumbent on all of us as civilians to show our support for those who selflessly devote their lives to keeping us safe. We stand with them today – and always.

Amid our grief, let us renew our commitment to our students who are preparing for their own careers in law enforcement. I remain confident that they will help us as a society to transcend these senseless acts of violence and that they will play a critical role in making our communities safer.

I encourage each of us to seek the support of our University community as we grapple with the heartache and anger we are invariably experiencing. Students may contact the Dean of Students Office or Counseling and Psychological Services, while employees can seek support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Let us never forget the officers killed and injured last night in Bristol – and their loved ones – and let us always express our appreciation for all law enforcement members who passionately give of themselves to help others in their time of need. They are true heroes among us.

With best wishes,

Steven H Kaplan, Ph.D.
Chancellor