A Statement From Hanover’s Dean of Students

The recent events in Minneapolis which led to the untimely death of George Floyd as well as the death of Breonna Taylor in Louisville have once again cast a sharp spotlight on the challenges and inequalities that African Americans and people of color face daily in this country. Citizens all across our nation have taken to the streets to give voice to these inequalities. It is a gut-wrenching consequence and a stark reality that people of color; African Americans are confronted with every day. Racism in America.

As a nation, we can do better. We must do better. We must do more. As a campus community, we must be a part of the collective chorus that shouts out that all lives are valuable. That black lives are valuable; that black lives matter. We must stand in solidarity.

As a campus community we must work together to drive forward positive change. As such, yesterday our campus community held a service of lamentation and repentance. I do hope you joined us for the beginning of many opportunities to take action and to take a stance. Information regarding additional programming and activities will be shared today via email by Constance Pope, Associate Director of Multicultural Affairs.

Our nation is hurting, our communities are suffering. Please reach out to me should you need help in processing these recent events.

As your Dean of Students, I ask that we all recommit ourselves to bring about change that is so long overdue. I look forward to engaging in this important work with you.

For such a time as this!

Dewain L. Lee, Ph.D.

Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students