It is difficult for many of us to find words to express the horror, sadness, and pain caused by the massacre of members of the LGBTQ community, largely people of color, in Orlando, Florida. As citizens of the world, we share this collective sorrow. As professionals at higher education institutions committed to the furtherance of diversity, equity, and inclusion this act is in sharp contrast to our values.

On behalf of HERC’s regional and national board members and staff, we stand against intolerance, hatred, and violence. We stand with Orlando, the victims and their loved ones, and the LGBTQ community and communities of color most impacted by this tragedy.

As the queer founder and leader of our professional consortium I aspire to bring us together to redouble our efforts to address the intolerance that fuels acts of hatred, so that we can build safer campuses, workplaces, and communities.

Nancy Aebersold
Executive Director
Higher Education Recruitment Consortium (HERC)

On behalf of HERC’s regional and national board members and staff