Florida State University leadership changed course Saturday on a proposed Monday return to campus when students insisted that it was too soon after a gunman opened fire near the student union Thursday.
An initial announcement Saturday morning by university President Richard McCullough acknowledged the upheaval felt by the university community.
“Our hearts are heavy after the tragedy that took place April 17. We are grieving with the families and friends who lost someone they love,” the email said. “This has shaken all of us, and I want you to know: We are here for you. Classes and business operations will resume Monday, April 21.”
As students’ expressions of confusion and in many cases anger grew throughout the day — including the creation of a petition demanding excused absences for students — the university’s position evolved.
First McCullough clarified in a video statement Saturday afternoon that while…
