Governor Honors Grads, Addresses Shootings in Letter to SMC President

By City News Service

Gov. Jerry Brown sent a letter Tuesday to the president of Santa Monica College honoring the accomplishments of the class of 2013, which will graduate tonight, but also noting the "pall" that has been cast over the students' achievements by Friday's shootings.

"The graduates have achieved something significant, and it is fitting that we mark this accomplishment before they embark on their careers or further education," Brown wrote in the letter to SMC President Chui L. Tsang.

"Sadly, we cannot mark this occasion without acknowledging the tragedy that recently occurred in this community," he wrote. "The senseless and violent acts of one person cast a pall over what should have been a purely joyful day.

"As we mourn those we have lost, let us also remember the bravery and professionalism of the police and others who responded, risking their own lives to save the lives of others. Their spirit of altruism and commitment to service can serve as an example to all of us as we work together to make the world a better place."