EMU Today

To students, faculty and staff:

EMU Police continue to follow up on several leads regarding the two incidents of racist graffiti that were found on Eastern’s campus last week. Video footage from University security cameras is being reviewed to try to identify anyone who may have been involved. Unfortunately, none of the cameras was directly trained on the areas in which the racist messages were written and painted, but cameras in the general vicinity of where the incidents took place may help provide investigators with additional information. Police have received calls and tips, and continue to interview people who have information to share.

The University is treating this matter with the highest of priorities. As a reflection of its seriousness, a reward of $2,500 has been issued. It is a rare occurrence for the University to issue a reward, but the University is hopeful that it will help generate additional information. If you have any information that will help, please contact the EMU Police Department at 734-487-1222 or call the tip line at 734-487-4847. So far, there is no indication of whether the person or people involved are students or whether they are from outside our campus community.

As stated previously, several actions have been implemented to support our students at this time. They include:

 ·       Increased police and security officers to further protect students

The University President and Chief of DPS have committed to increased police and security presence at day and night to ensure the safety and well being of our students and the entire campus community. Patrols and security have been increased at night. 

 ·       Anonymous Electronic Institutional Feedback Form

Every member of the campus community has an opportunity to submit their questions, concerns, and requests for institutional action related to issues of race and diversity at EMU. Please click on the Anonymous Electronic Feedback Form to participate. The University has received many ideas and suggestions.

 ·       A forum will take place as soon as possible, but no later than early October

Members of the campus community will have the opportunity to engage with senior leaders regarding these issues and to further express questions, concerns and requests for institutional action related to issues of race and inclusion at EMU. We are committed to continuing to take tangible actions to ensure a safe, inclusive and welcoming campus environment.  These discussions are ongoing and I encourage anyone that would like to participate in the dialogue to contact Calvin Phillips at 734-487-0035 or by email at cphill34@emich.edu.

 ·       Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) has announced an expansion in service during this challenging time with additional counselors and counseling hours. Students can contact CAPS at 734-487-1118 if they would like to talk with a professional.

As was shared earlier today, CAPS has announced it is adding a new service together with the Office of Diversity and Community Involvement (DCI). Group discussions will be facilitated by staff from DCI and CAPS, as well as other EMU staff or faculty. The discussions will take place in The Intersection, a student space across from Service EMU in the Student Center.  

Students are welcome to come to all or part of any group discussion scheduled for this week:

Tuesday, Sept. 27  3:30 – 5:00pm

Wednesday, Sept 28   7:30-9:00pm

We will continue to provide additional updates in the days ahead and will provide an immediate bulletin when any arrests are made or other significant information is determined. A webpage has been developed in order to provide an ongoing resource for updates and information related to the investigation, and actions taken at this time.

As always, if you have any concerns about your safety or well-being or have information share, please contact EMU Police at 734-487-1222.