October 19, 2017 – Many members of the Santa Fe College family have expressed concerns about events in the community. Students, faculty and staff alike are experiencing increased anxiety as events unfold in Gainesville concerning today’s scheduled speech by white-nationalist Richard Spencer on the University of Florida campus.
Pro- and anti-Spencer groups have descended on our community as have countless media outlets to cover the event and potential fallout. Law enforcement and first responders have been preparing for the event, trying to keep disruptions to normal daily activities to a minimum.
SF administration understands how concerning today’s events can be, and has always considered SF to be an open and welcoming community and believing in the benefits that other cultures provide.
Students, as well as staff should know that the SF Counseling Center is available to help ease the stress that many are feeling. The SF Counseling Center is located in Building R, Room 227 and can be reached by phone by calling 352-395-5508. Although appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are welcome, and the services provided are free.
Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. Naima Brown, helped compile a list of frequently asked questions many in the SF family have in regards to the scheduled speech.
SF is also committed to the safety of everyone on our campus and centers. The SFPD has worked with neighboring agencies including Alachua and Bradford County deputies, Starke Police Department officers as well as the Lake City Police Department to make sure the entire Santa Fe College family stays safe.
Above all, every student, faculty and staff member should realize that We are one community – We are all Saints!