Massini, Black share message about violence in Washington on Jan. 6

Penn State Health CEO Steve Massini and College of Medicine Interim Dean Kevin Black sent the following email on Jan. 7.
The horrific events that took place Wednesday afternoon in our nation’s capital have no doubt shaken many members of our Penn State Health and College of Medicine family. As details have continued to emerge many of our workforce members, students and patients are understandably experiencing sadness, concern and anger.
Leaders of both parties have clearly and emphatically denounced the violence and lawlessness that occurred in Washington, D.C., yesterday. Without hesitation, Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine join with our university in condemning it as well.
Our health system and College of Medicine have a common fundamental purpose—to alleviate human suffering and improve the wellbeing and quality of life for the people of our communities and around the world. Never has this purpose been more tested than over the past year.
Strengthened by our values of Respect, Integrity, Teamwork and Excellence, we have shown great resolve in continuing to meet the challenge of a global pandemic. Our values must remain at the heart of everything we do, even as those around us struggle with differences of opinion and conflicting political perspectives. Intimidation, violence and lawlessness are never the answer to settling our disagreements.
America has always been a nation that encourages a diversity of ideas and the freedom to express those ideas with the belief that doing so makes us stronger. This belief is also essential to organizations like ours that are committed to discovery, learning and healing. To honor that legacy and preserve our democratic institutions it is essential that all of us strive to resolve our political and ideological differences, whatever they may be, respectfully and peacefully.
Steve Massini Kevin Black, MD
CEO Interim Dean
Penn State Health Penn State College of Medicine
If you're having trouble accessing this content, or would like it in another format, please email Penn State Health Marketing & Communications.