News Release
Important Announcement From the Chancellor
Media Contact(s)
Keith Nichols, News Services, (919) 515-7159
November 08, 2007
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
This morning, campus police responded to a report of a small noose made from toilet paper and hanging from the back of a stall door in a restroom at the Sullivan Shops Building. The incident is under investigation. Here are the facts as reported by campus police:
- The incident was reported to campus police at about 8:30 this morning.
- The noose was made of toilet paper and about 10 inches long.
- Sullivan Shops (located on the southwest side of campus) is locked after hours (after 5 p.m.) and accessible only by employees with keys.
We want to resist the temptation to overreact to what appears to be an isolated incident. This could be someone’s idea of a prank or it might constitute a crime. In either case, it is inappropriate. This is an act that has become symbolic of racial hatred.
There is no room for this kind of action on the NC State campus. Even if it is intended as a prank, it is disruptive and an offense to a safe learning and working environment.
Let me make it clear that the incident is being investigated and anyone found guilty of this act is subject to the university's disciplinary process and may also face criminal charges.
I would also like to reaffirm that we welcome individuals of varied backgrounds, races, nationalities, religions, opinions and interests, recognizing the strengths that each person adds to our campus. NC State supports free expression and debate. This open exchange of ideas must be guided by our commitment to the ideals of tolerance, respect and civility.
Chancellor James Oblinger