Association of Canadian Community Colleges Reacts to Dawson College Tragedy

Ottawa, September 18, 2006 - On behalf of Canada’s 150 colleges and institutes, the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC) extends sincere condolences to the entire Dawson College community, and in particular to the family and friends of Anastasia De Sousa and those injured in the despicable events of September 13, 2006.

“Colleges and institutes from across Canada stand together as one of our own deals with the tragic loss and grief of a senseless crime that victimized innocent lives and traumatized a respectable educational community,” said Gerald Brown, President of the Association. “In Montreal, a young woman with a bright and promising future lost her life, and others are fighting for survival, because of the unpredictable violence of one person. No response can convey our sympathies or concern deeply enough,” added Mr. Brown.

Canada’s colleges and institutes have emergency and disaster planning in place; risk management and security awareness penetrate all levels of each of these institutions so that the safety of students and staff is paramount. Nevertheless, no public institution can ever fully predict random and senseless acts of violence.

The Canadian college and institute community is committed to supporting Dawson College in its efforts to assist its 10,000 students and the community in the healing process.

For more information on the Association of Canadian Community Colleges and Canada’s 150 colleges and institutes, visit www.accc.ca.

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Contact:

Gerry Brown
President
Association of Canadian Community Colleges
Tel.: 613-746-2222 ext. 6492