All of us at Open World extend our deepest condolences to the staff, students, family, friends and community of Umpqua Community College (UCC) in Roseburg, Oregon. We think of you as part of the Open World family and grieve alongside you.

Thank you to the staff and families of UCC for welcoming the Open World delegation from Ukraine so soon after your terrible ordeal. Words fail us as we all admire your courageous decision to host the young educators from your partner organizations in Uzhgorod and Kremenchuk, Ukraine. I hope that all of the hard work that goes into hosting creates a positive experience for UCC as you continue the healing process.

During a spring 2009 exchange to Roseburg, Ore., education leaders from Uzhgorod National University and Kremenchuk State Polytechnical University in western Ukraine signed an agreement on educational cooperation with Umpqua Community College, one of their host organizations. The delegates and the host community representative identified a variety of common interests including education collaboration, cooperation on issues related to viticulture and enology that has blossomed into a deep and enduring relationship.

What an example your courage is for our visitors. I know they will leave the United States with warm memories of the families they stay with and will benefit greatly by being a part of this strong community’s healing process. We pray for Umpqua Community College, the victims, and families hurt by this senseless tragedy.