The words I would like to express following the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery do not flow so easily. I have been slow to speak publicly about these most recent brutal acts, because I have such strong feelings and so much to say that my heart is heavy. I recognize that I have much to learn about systemic racism in our country and our institutions, and I will continue to educate myself and our staff on the issues that confront our black students and colleagues daily.

To our black students and colleagues, I hear you. I see you. I value you. You matter. I do not pretend to understand how deep your pain, frustration, and anger are. What I do know is that I have a responsibility to lead this department in doing the work of racial justice. Working as an agent of change and standard of allyship, I am committed to educating our staff well beyond the news cycle and advocating for a better system that serves you. What will this look like? I am not sure. We may encounter obstacles, but I am clear that we must do it together and with courage. I want Salem Athletics and Salem College to be better equipped and educated to actively practice the values we hold dear as a women's college.

Trish Hughes
Salem College Director of Athletics