A message from President Schenck following the tragic events in Nice

Dear Members of the AUP Community,

By now you have no doubt heard about the tragic incident that took place along the Promenade in Nice last night, about which we do not yet have enough information to understand fully. French President Francois Hollande has characterized this senseless crime as a terrorist act, but more precise information should be revealed over the course of the day as the investigators do their work. Meanwhile, France mourns. And the world—witness to yet another act of abject violence against innocent bystanders—mourns with France. 

Although yesterday was a holiday and our summer students were off, most all were in Paris to enjoy the extraordinary fireworks over the Eiffel Tower. We have classes in session today, and faculty are mobilized to support our students and let us know if anyone needs extra help. We wrote to all students last night as soon as we learned about what happened in Nice to let students know about the incident and encourage any who might be worried to be in contact with the Office of Student Development. Our counselors and Student Development staff will be on duty all day today to talk with any students who have concerns.

We will be in touch with you by email again as soon as we can provide further information, but in the meantime invite anyone with questions to contact Student Development or Kevin Fore, our Dean of Student Development, by email (kforeaup.edu).  As I write this, things are very calm in Paris, and students are proceeding with the last few days of their summer session courses—taking field trips to museums and markets in Paris, working on their final group and individual projects, enjoying the sights, and developing friendships with students from all over the world. 

Warmest regards,

Celeste Schenck