As most of you know, there was a tragic and outrageous shooting in Tucson, Arizona, over the weekend. At least six people were killed, including a federal judge, a child of nine, and four other precious souls. The shooter targeted Congresswoman Gabrielle “Gabby” Giffords, who was critically injured along with 13 others. She was a special part of the Harvard Kennedy School community, as she attended the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program in 2003. Those who know her have consistently said that she represents the highest ideals to which members of the public service community—including HKS—aspire. Our hearts go out to all of those affected by this horrible tragedy.
Congresswoman Giffords was engaged in the ordinary work of meeting with her constituents. She was engaged in public service and may have been targeted for that work. Tragically, across the world, elected officials, candidates, and other public leaders are sometimes killed or injured while seeking to make the world better. Members of the military, police, fire department and other emergency responders also knowingly put themselves in harm’s way in the name of something larger than themselves.
Public service is a calling, and it lies at the heart of all we do here at the Kennedy School. It always requires sacrifice and often requires uncommon courage. Women and men who serve the public interest, who speak with integrity and intelligence, and who work for positive change are heroes.
I hope you will join me in keeping Gabby and the other victims in your thoughts and prayers. This morning, we gathered in the Forum for the nationwide moment of silence held in their honor. My thanks to all of you for your commitment and ideals. We must continue to honor all those who have the courage to serve.
Sincerely,
David
David T. Ellwood, Dean
Scott M. Black Professor of Political Economy
Harvard Kennedy School
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