Dear Tusculum parents and family members:
Recent actions taken to promote national safety and security have resulted in concern and anxiety for members of our community due to the impact on individuals and the uncertainty at hand. These actions afford all members of the Tusculum College community a special opportunity to stop and reflect on how our heritage, and current practice, of diversity and inclusion have enriched our ability to achieve our mission to provide “a liberal arts education in a Judeo-Christian and civic arts environment, with pathways for career preparation, personal development and civic engagement.”
Attainment of each of the elements of our mission is enhanced by the contributions of each member of our Tusculum community, our students, staff, faculty, alumni, board members, donors and others within the broader community. Each member of our community enrich the “Tusculum Experience.” The loss of any member of our community is seen as a thread pulled from our rich tapestry. Therefore, while we are not aware of any students, staff or faculty connected to the immigration ban on citizens of the seven nations named, we are all anxious about this situation and are paying close attention to daily developments.
Currently, we are cautioning those considering international travel during this time of uncertainty to seek counsel and we ask that anyone experiencing difficulties can make us aware if we can be of assistance. International students who have questions about their ongoing status should consult with Melissa Ripley in the Admissions Office, and anyone experiencing distress can contact the Student Affairs Office to speak with a counselor or discuss other means by which we can be of support.
Finally, I note that dissent and the civil exchange of differing perspectives are fundamental elements in developing critical thinking, and in expanding our understanding of and appreciation for others. The College believes in encouraging discourse and dialogue while also challenging and preventing that which evolves into discrimination and harassment. I ask that each of us look to our civic arts tradition in our daily interactions and that each of us take personal responsibility for preserving this rare environment where respectful exchange and the exploration of ideas not only contributes to our knowledge, but also to our social, physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual growth and development.
Sit Lux,
Dr. Nancy B. Moody, PhD
President