Early Bird

Awareness of possible inauguration-week protests

Based on information from local law-enforcement partners, the University does not have any safety concerns at this time.

By Larry Sampler, vice president of Administration, Finance and Facilities/COO

January 18, 2021

Dear MSU Denver students, faculty and staff,

As we approach the presidential inauguration this week, we want to let you know that MSU Denver is actively monitoring the potential for protests or violence that could affect our campus between now and Wednesday. It is not lost on me that I’m writing to you today, as we celebrate the life and accomplishments of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and that many people of color in our communities may feel particularly vulnerable or threatened, given some of the language and symbols that were prevalent in various protests and incidents around the country over the past few weeks.

Based on information from the Auraria Campus Police Department and local law-enforcement partners, we do not have any safety concerns related to planned protests in Denver at this time. Should we receive new information on planned events or should any activity at the state Capitol escalate and move toward campus, we won’t hesitate to communicate again with students, faculty and staff, as your safety is our No. 1 priority. 

Beyond possible operational disruptions to campus, I want to acknowledge the pain and anxiety that members of our community may be feeling in response to the violence at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. For students, the Counseling Center offers free and confidential mental-health assistance online. The Colorado State Employee Assistance Program has free resources for faculty and staff. Our Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion is also proactively planning events for students this week to help them process their reactions to current events. Additionally, anyone can submit a CARE Report if they have concerns about the well-being of an MSU Denver student.

I would also remind you that we are still in the midst of dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic.  For anyone who will be returning to campus this week, please remember to follow our health protocols, complete the daily health assessment and do all you can to keep yourself, your family and our community healthy.

The peaceful and dignified transfer of power from one elected leader to another is a hallmark of a well-functioning democracy. While the challenges we have faced in the past few weeks are concerning, I remain hopeful our democracy will remain strong. And, again, we do not anticipate significant unrest affecting our campus in the coming week. MSU Denver will remain vigilant in monitoring potential activity, and we will swiftly communicate any updates as needed.

Sincerely,

Larry Sampler

Vice president of Administration, Finance and Facilities/COO