Statement on the tragic events in Mumbai, India

Message to the McGill community on the Mumbai attacks

We wish to offer our deepest sympathies to all those affected by the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India. On behalf of the University, Professor Heather Munroe-Blum, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, extends condolences to the families of two members of the McGill community, Professor Michael Moss and graduate Elizabeth Russell, who died in the tragic events.

Dr. Moss was an assistant professor in McGill’s Department of Family Medicine and a doctor at the Julius Richardson Convalescent Hospital. Elizabeth Russell earned a diploma and three degrees in nursing and social work from McGill.

“We are deeply saddened by this horrific news, and condemn the senseless violence that led to their deaths. I cannot comprehend the shock and grief their families and friends, and indeed, the loved ones of all the victims, must be feeling at this time. Our thoughts are with all of them,” says Professor Munroe-Blum.

“Both Dr. Moss and Elizabeth Russell devoted themselves to caring for others. It is simply tragic that their lives were brought to such an abrupt and brutal end.” Dr. Richard I. Levin, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Vice-Principal (Health Affairs), Professor Wendy Thomson, Director of the School of Social Work, and Dr. Martin Dawes, Chair of the Department of Family Medicine, also join in offering their heartfelt condolences.

Many of McGill’s students, staff and alumni have close ties to India, and the University is offering help to any members of the community touched by this tragedy.

Students in need of assistance can contact any of the following offices:

International Student Services
Brown Student Services Building, 3rd floor
3600 McTavish St.
Contact: Pauline L’Écuyer (514-398-4349)

Office of the Dean of Students
Brown Student Services Building, 4th floor
514-398-4990
deanofstudents [at] mcgill.ca

McGill Counselling (Downtown Campus)
Brown Student Services Building, 4th floor
3600 McTavish
514-398-3601

McGill Counselling (Macdonald Campus):
Student Service Centre (Centennial Centre)
514-398-7992

Mental Health Service
Brown Student Services Building
3600 McTavish, 5th floor
Tel.: 514-398-6019

Employees who are eligible for the benefit program may, of course, contact the Employee Assistance Program at 514-843-7009 or 1-800-567-2433. Employees should also feel free to discuss problems with their supervisor or ask their supervisor to refer them to the Human Resources Department for assistance.

Any member of the McGill community in need of counseling or solace may contact the McGill Chaplaincy Service. Chaplains may be reached by telephone at 514-398-4101 or via their website. The office is at Suite 4400, Brown Student Services Building, 3600 McTavish St.