AUCON sends messages of support to the grieving families.

AUCON joins all Alabamians in expressing grief and sadness over the tragedy that took place in Dadeville over the weekend. On April 17, a group of 15 individuals consisting of AUCON faculty, staff and students met to brainstorm ways for the College of Nursing to actively be involved in meeting the needs of those affected by the tragedy in Dadeville. Over the years, AUCON faculty, staff, and students have been involved in the Tallapoosa County Schools and surrounding area schools through outreach initiatives and activities.

A Dadeville florist is selling gold/black bows for mailboxes, for $15 each. The proceeds from the sale will be applied to two scholarships to honor the two senior students killed in the incident. The scholarships are going to be presented at the time of graduation to two students who will receive their diplomas.

The College of Nursing group purchased 40 bows to be distributed to families who may not otherwise be able to spend $15 on a bow. At the suggestion of Superintendent Porter (Tallapoosa County School Board of Education), these bows will be delivered to the Board’s Central Office in Dadeville. The office will send out a message that bows are available while supplies last (courtesy of the Auburn University College of Nursing) in the lobby of the Central Office. Students will be encouraged to stop by the Central Office and pick up a bow.

Thank you to our students for preparing the signs of support for the communities, which were greatly appreciated. AUCON students prepared signs to send to several schools to show love and support for the grieving families. Faculty and staff members delivered the signs to Dadeville (Elementary and High School), Reeltown High School, Tallassee High School, Pike Road High School, and Opelika High Schools, Russell Medical Center, and Lake Martin Hospital.

“All the schools were very grateful and touched that we thought of them,” said Professor Amy Curtis, who delivered some of the signs to the schools.

“This is such a sweet gesture. Thank you all so much,” said Principal Diane Miller, Dadeville Elementary School.

“The love and support shown is so greatly appreciated,” said Principal Janice Stockman, Pike Road Junior High School. “Our high school principal, Mrs. Maness, has worked tirelessly with our community. This act of kindness gives us life and support at moments we most need them. And thank you for thinking of us and for your prayers for all the affected families.”