February 1, 2018
As a Catholic and Vincentian University, St. John’s embraces the ideals of respect and dignity for all. We strive to promote these values among our students, faculty, administrators, staff, alumni, and the broader community.
Today, I became aware of a classroom incident between students that escalated to the posting of racist messages onto social media and then involved others at another institution. Upon learning of this incident, our Division of Student Affairs immediately initiated an investigation. St. John’s Student Code of Conduct explicitly prohibits “any verbal or physical action committed against or towards a person…that is motivated…by bias.” As President of St. John’s University, I condemn in the strongest possible terms any action that is hurtful to another person or group.
I understand the feelings of pain and frustration this incident evoked in members of our student body. I have been told by individual students that our campus climate has not always been welcoming and affirming to them. This saddens me very much. I am committed to creating a supportive and inclusive community for all.
We have taken steps to respond to the concerns raised by our students, and we recognize that our work is not done. We will continue to take deliberate actions that address the concerns of our community, including and especially those raised by our students.
As a University community, we must strive each day to exemplify the values that St. John’s has held dear for 148 years: Truth, Love, Respect, Opportunity, Excellence and Service. We must treat each other with respect in our daily actions. The University remains strongly committed to fostering a campus climate that is inclusive and supportive of all its members.
Conrado "Bobby" Gempesaw, Ph.D.
President