This message is being sent on behalf of Vice President for Campus Life Penny Rue:

Wake Forest Students, Faculty and Staff,

Earlier this morning, you received a message from President Hatch about the tragic loss of life following a party at the Barn overnight. I also want to share my condolences for the family and friends of Winston-Salem State University student Najee Baker and offer support to faculty, staff and students as we all wrestle with our emotions.

Unfortunately, an unrelated incident of a different nature came to our attention last night that has created concern, and considerable anger, among members of our community.

Campus Life staff were alerted through the bias reporting system to a deeply troubling video posted on social media of a Wake Forest student admitting to using a racial slur when referring to a resident adviser on their hall. We are currently engaged in discussions with multiple individuals as we continue to gather details preceding, leading up to, and after the incident.

Racist and discriminatory behaviors are not tolerated at Wake Forest. We are taking this matter seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation.

Wake Forest offers a variety of support and counseling services for all students, faculty and staff. The Counseling Center may be reached at 336-758-5273, the Chaplain’s Office at 336-758-5210 and the Intercultural Center at 336-758-5864. Faculty and staff may also contact the Employee Assistance Program at 336-716-5493.

Sincerely,

Penny Rue
Vice President of Campus Life

Contact

To contact the Office of Family Engagement or Family Communications, please visit our contact page.

 

For mental health assistance: 336-758-CARE (2273) is a service that ensures someone will always be available (i.e., 24/7 M-F, weekends and university holidays) to provide caring and thoughtful consultation services for Wake Forest students in need of mental health assistance or support.