Statement from University of Missouri Chancellor Brady Deaton

February 26th, 2010

COLUMBIA, Mo. ­— “In today’s early morning hours, a disheartening and inexcusable act was committed on our campus when cotton balls were strewn at the front entrance to our Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center. Those guilty of this despicable action have not yet been identified, but MUPD became involved immediately and is conducting an investigation.  This university is fully committed to tolerance and respect for every one of its members, and this kind of conduct will not be tolerated at MU. I urge anyone who has information related to this crime to contact MUPD immediately and to join me in expressing your own individual concern and support to the members of our community who were the apparent targets. I have been informed that the Legion of Black Collegians is calling a Town Hall Meeting for Monday at 5 p.m., location to be determined. 

“MU celebrates the diversity of our community and this behavior offends us all.”