A Statement on the Guilty Verdict in the Trial of Derek Chauvin
Dear MMC Community:
Earlier today, the jury in the trial of Derek Chauvin found the former Minneapolis police officer guilty of murdering George Floyd. The emotions swirling around this verdict are deep and complex. We feel the weight of this moment in history; it is visceral. Almost one year ago, this horrific murder had a profound impact on our world, our nation, and our local communities. That impact was particularly difficult for our MMC community, where the hurt and anguish of many were expressed openly and honestly.
Today’s verdict is an inflection point in our collective work in the Black Lives Matter movement. While our work is far from over, this moment shows us what is possible when we work together for justice and equity. It proves that the dedicated efforts of concerned communities, including ours at the College, can lead to change.
We are called and encouraged to continue the vital work for racial justice and equity. We know how long and hard this particular road has been, and there are many miles left to travel. We do not travel this road alone. We know that the upcoming days and weeks may continue to be difficult. We know that difficult conversations may occur among our families and friends. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to members of the MMC community during this time as you process your honest emotions.
The College will be holding a Community Space tomorrow, Wednesday, April 21 at 2:00 pm to allow a safe space for any and all to process together.
Zoom Link
Members of the Counseling and Wellness Center (CWC) staff will also be available during this time.
Here are additional resources that can help as we process the impact of this profound moment as individuals and as a college community.
Resources for the BIPoC Community
- Resources For The BIPOC Community During The Chauvin Trial
- Self-Care Tips for Black People Struggling With This Very Painful Week
- Black Lives Matter Meditation for Healing Racial Trauma
Resources for Conversation
Sincerely,
Kerry Walk, President
Rebecca Mattis-Pinard, Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer
Published: April 20, 2021
Paying It Forward: Board Chair Abby Fiorella ’83 Shares How MMC Has Shaped Her Life
For Abby Fiorella ’83, the memories of Marymount Manhattan College are long-lasting, and the friendships lifelong.
She still remembers the first time she saw the black-and-white marble entryway in Carson Hall and her nerve-wracking audition for the theatre program. To this day, her closest friends are former classmates and others from the MMC community.
And as an executive at a Fortune 50 company, Fiorella finds a way to carve out time to oversee the College. A member of the Board of Trustees since 2015, she was recently elected Chair of the Board, the College’s highest office.
So when she tells new graduates, as she did at commencement in May, “wherever your life’s journey takes you, always remember that Marymount Manhattan College is your home forever,” it’s not just advice but also the motto she’s lived by.
