Public Statements

Community of Caring

October 2, 2017

Tags Public Statements

Dear Members of the Hamilton Community,

Last week our community experienced the tragic loss of one of our students, Isaiah Carpenter-Winch. His passing left many of us confused, frustrated, and helpless. We have received numerous emails from community members asking how we can better address mental health issues and foster a stronger sense of wholeness and connectedness in our community. Now is a time when we can each pause to ask what we, as individuals, can do to support and enhance our community while at the same time address as an institution the societal issues that affect the lives of our students.

With that in mind, we are writing to announce the launch of a Community of Care initiative. This initiative, which will be coordinated by the Dean of Students Office, will provide opportunities for us to come together in small groups to build community. Elements for immediate implementation include community dinners and an educational campaign focused on seeking assistance; longer-term opportunities will include education, skill building, and enhancing our systems, protocols, and policies around wellness and mental health. These topics are already being discussed as part of the College's strategic planning process.

We will be attending meetings this week, including the Student Assembly and the Faculty Meeting, to discuss this initiative in greater detail. Dean Martinez will also host a Community Conversation on Thursday, October 5th, at 7 pm in the Dwight Lounge of the Bristol Center.

We hope you will engage in the conversation as we all work to strengthen an environment in which each person is cared for and supported.

David Wippman and Terry Martinez