Dear Clemson:
 
As a family, Clemson celebrates together and we mourn together.
 
The deaths over the weekend of senior Ralph Pinnock and freshman Ben Sprague bring to seven the number of Clemson students we have lost this semester.  I cannot ever recall a time when we have had so much tragedy affect so many young people in such a short span of time.
 
Our campus is in mourning once again, and I just wanted to express how deeply we feel each loss.
 
Many of you knew more than one of these students.  For students who are struggling to handle feelings of grief along with concerns over exams and grades, remember that we have counselors, RAs, academic advisers, teachers, fraternity and sorority advisers, and others ready to talk with you and help you.  Call on them if you need them.
 
Nothing prepares you for a time like this, and nothing helps more than the support of those around you.  The Clemson family will keep all of these students and their families in our hearts, in our thoughts and in our prayers during this holiday season.
 
To all who will be traveling, I wish you a safe journey wherever you are headed.
 
Sincerely,
Jim Barker
 
James F. Barker, FAIA
President
Clemson University
201 Sikes Hall
Clemson, South Carolina  29634
tel. 864.656.3413
fax 864.656.4676