A Message to the Saint Elizabeth University Community

Dear Members and Friends of the Saint Elizabeth University Community,

I write to you with deep sorrow following reports of a violent attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where a shooting occurred during a Jewish holiday gathering marking Hanukkah. Authorities have confirmed multiple casualties, and while details continue to emerge, the attack appears to have been directed at a religious community during a sacred time of celebration.

An attack on people gathered in faith is an attack on human dignity itself. Violence rooted in antisemitism, hatred, or religious intolerance has no place in our world, and it stands in direct opposition to the values we uphold at Saint Elizabeth University.

As a Catholic university founded on the principles of justice, compassion, and respect for the inherent worth of every person, we stand in solidarity with the Jewish community, both globally and within our own campus family. We condemn antisemitism and all forms of hate without qualification, and we reaffirm our commitment to being a community where individuals of all faiths and backgrounds are safe, valued, and respected.

I recognize that this news may be especially painful for members of our community who are Jewish, who have family or cultural ties to Australia, or who are personally affected by religious or hate-based violence. In moments like these, I ask all of us to lead with empathy, to check in on one another, to listen with care, and to reject language or actions that divide rather than heal.

We will continue to monitor this situation as verified information becomes available. In the meantime, let us hold the victims and their families in our prayers, stand firmly against antisemitism and hatred, and recommit ourselves to building a community rooted in peace, understanding, and love.

Sincerely,
Gary B. Crosby, Ph.D.
President