Talking Stick - September/October 2010 - 28

PRovIDIng thE ESSEntIAlS

with information and emotional support, provide opportunities for all community members to pay their respects to the victims, and provide access to other resources. The campus community will also need outlets to express its grief and initiate the long healing and recovery process. Campuswide healing initiatives might include campus vigils, moments of silence, ribbon campaigns, and memorial services. Staff members might also manage smaller events specific to student organizations. As the immediate crisis situation recedes, and the focus shifts to recovery and healing efforts, inclusive program efforts will depend on the nature of the campus culture, student body, and community members. Student activities staff should work closely with college administrators to provide programs and services for the community that has been affected by

the crisis. Additionally, student activities staff should work with the counseling center to ensure the appropriate tone and level of respect to accommodate different styles of grieving. Typically, members of the student activities department have the most direct contact with student organizations. A crisis can have an impact on student groups, particularly those whose members are directly involved in a campus shooting. The student activities department must provide outreach services and resources to those groups. Under such circumstances, advising can take on new meaning as well. Staff advisers should anticipate the need to be available for their students and seek out any advice and support from other colleagues as needed. In day-to-day operations, student activities often serves as a liaison

between students and administrators. Following a traumatic event, this role is especially important and needs to be handled carefully because of its sensitive nature. Ongoing, open communication with student leadership will be important, as student leaders may assume ownership of support and recovery initiatives. Therefore, it is critical to keep them involved and feeling that they are being heard by administration throughout the process. Community members might seek meaningful ways to contribute to the healing process, and it is important for the institution to provide an outlet. Projects may range from selling items to planning memorial concerts. While some external entities may be honest and well intentioned, other outside groups might try to profit from the situation. For example, the
coNtiNues 44

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Talking Stick - September/October 2010

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