Dear Friends:

This week KU joins universities nationwide in mourning for Virginia Tech University. Students and faculty wore commemorative ribbons and signed a banner of condolence that will be sent to the college. On Tuesday evening, Jayhawks gathered for a candlelight vigil at the Memorial Campanile. Also, KU sent a message to all KU parents regarding campus safety.

Chancellor Robert Hemenway on Monday expressed the sentiments of thousands: “Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the Virginia Tech University family today,“ he said. “The horrific tragedy that occurred this morning is so immense it is difficult to comprehend. The safety of our students, faculty, staff and visitors is paramount."

Jayhawks will return home for Alumni Weekend April 19-21. Activities include Association-sponsored bus tours, luncheons and dinner parties for the Class of 1957 and the Gold Medal Club. Schools and departments also will host activities, and the 80th edition of the Kansas Relays will feature world-class athletes in Memorial Stadium.

In difficult times, our communities and traditions offer strength and comfort.

Warmest wishes from the Hill,
KU Alumni Association


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KU's special education program ranks No. 1 in the nation among public universities according to U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Graduate Schools" listing for 2007. Education (12th), petroleum engineering (7th), biological sciences (30th) and law (34th) all rose in the rankings this year. KU has a total of 23 programs ranked in the top 25.

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