USU Interim President: USU Condemns Political Violence

Editor's note: USU Interim President Alan L. Smith sent the following message to students on Sept. 12, 2025.

Dear Students,

In the wake of this week’s tragic event, our hearts at Utah State University are heavy. We recognize the profound impact this has had on our campus, Utah’s institutions of higher education, and communities across the nation. This is a deeply difficult time, and everyone is processing this tragedy differently.

The targeted shooting of Charlie Kirk wasn’t just the murder of a young man, but an assault on free expression, the bedrock of the pursuit of higher learning and an open and free society. Let me be direct, celebrating the death of someone who holds a different worldview from one’s own is reprehensible and entirely incompatible with USU’s principles of community. As we move forward together, we ask that you lean into these principles that unite and guide us: our shared humanity, dignity, and responsibility to our community.

Please remember that support is available. We encourage you to reach out and make use of the following resources designed to help you navigate this difficult time. Students on any USU campus can connect with the CARE office or access free counseling through Counseling and Prevention Services.

No matter our beliefs or backgrounds, we are all Aggies. Together, let us continue to build a campus rooted in respect, compassion, and care for one another.

Sincerely,

Alan L. Smith

Interim President