This cowardly attack on the United States is a great tragedy for our entire country, and for the cause of peace and justice throughout the world, and its repercussions will be significant. We are all deeply saddened by the loss of life and we stand beside those people everywhere who condemn these acts.

The intent of these attacks is to make every American everywhere feel vulnerable and afraid. But our country will survive these acts and prevail against those who perpetrated them.

The crisis group has been convened at Ball State University to review all possible considerations connected to this national tragedy. We are prepared to take appropriate action at the first evidence of any credible threat or danger to anyone in the university community. In the absence of such a danger or threat, we will maintain our academic schedule. Faculty members, especially in appropriate subject areas, are encouraged to provide opportunities for students to discuss these events in class. We hope that students will take advantage of the university's counseling center and other support services as needed. Our campus security will be in close contact with other law enforcement and security agencies.

This is a time for all of us to reflect on our free society and essential values that can be threatened but not diminished.