Dear UTC community,
Today I received the call no one ever wants to hear: “active shooter in the library.” I know firsthand the impact this had on campus because I was right here with you.
First, I want to commend our entire campus community for the calm and deliberate way you responded to today’s incident. Our Office of Public Safety executed a textbook response that led to an orderly evacuation of necessary buildings and secured the other buildings in the area.
I also hope everyone can appreciate their coordinated and collaborative efforts with first responders from the City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County, Tennessee Highway Patrol, TBI, and the FBI.
Although no evidence of an active shooter or injuries was found, I know that in the moment the uncertainty was very stressful. Those moments are stressful to all of us, and I know the angst this created for our entire community.
We sent an email to the entire campus, but I wanted to personally follow up to remind you that any employee affected by this event may access support through the Here4TN Emotional Wellbeing Solutions (EWS).
EWS services are available at no cost, are strictly confidential, and can be accessed 24/7 by calling 1-855-HERE4TN (1-855-437-3486).
This is a time when we can all provide support and show kindness to one another. If you are especially concerned about a student or colleague, please submit a Community Member of Concern Form at www.utc.edu/coc, email sos@utc.edu for students, or utchumanresources@utc.edu for employees.
Sincerely,
Chancellor Lori Bruce
