Following Monday's tragic death of a student in the library, MTSU will reopen to students and faculty on Wednesday (October 30). However, the James E. Walker Library will remain closed until Thursday (October 31).
In a heartfelt message to the university community, President Sidney A. McPhee expressed profound sorrow and encouraged students, faculty, and staff to seek support as they process grief and navigate their emotions during this difficult time. “It is difficult to put into words the pain and sorrow we feel when a tragedy such as we experienced Monday falls upon our community,” he shared. “Please know that as president of this university, I urge you to reach out for help whenever you need it.”
President McPhee invites students, faculty, and the broader community to join him at a vigil hosted by the Student Government Association on Wednesday at 6 p.m. in front of the James E. Walker Library. This gathering will provide an opportunity for the university community to come together, reflect, and support each other.
In addition to Wednesday’s reopening and the vigil, MTSU has arranged additional resources and extended hours for campus services:
- Library: The James E. Walker Library will be closed until Thursday, October 31. Tutoring, Adaptive Technology, and the Writing Center are available online for questions and rescheduling.
- Counseling Services: Student crisis support is available through MTSU Counseling Services, located in Room 322 in the Keathley University Center, with expanded hours this week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The MTSU Mobile Crisis Number (1-800-704-2651) and the 988 Suicide Hotline are available 24/7.
- Faculty and Staff Support: Counseling and Psychological Services (615-898-2271) will offer walk-in appointments on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, support is accessible 24/7 for employees through the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), provided by Optum Behavioral Health, at 855-437-3486.
President McPhee reaffirmed the university’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for all, stating, “Please remember that you are not alone.”
PREVIOUSLY REPORTED
Middle Tennessee State University is grieving the loss of a student who passed away by suicide Monday afternoon at the James E. Walker Library. The university has decided to close on Tuesday as students and staff cope with the tragedy. The only exception will be for operations essential to public safety and service to on-campus residents. The University reopens Wednesday. The library will remain closed until further notice.
In response, MTSU's Counseling Services team is available to provide both group and individual support in the Keathley University Center (KUC), room 322, starting at 4:15 p.m. today. Trained counselors are on hand to assist anyone impacted by this tragedy.
Students and staff seeking immediate support may also contact Counseling Services in KUC 326-S by calling (615) 898-2670. For after-hours emergencies, Mobile Crisis is available at 1-800-704-2651, or community members may go to the nearest emergency room. The Suicide Hotline is available by dialing 988.
President Sidney A. McPhee expressed condolences to the Blue Raider family, underscoring the university’s commitment to supporting the community in this difficult time.
