Perspectives on School Violence Forum to Be Held at Buffalo State

The School of Education at Buffalo State is sponsoring a community forum in response to the most recent school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. The forum will take place on Thursday, March 8, at 4:30 p.m. in Bulger Communication Center South.

The forum will feature a panel of seven faculty and staff experts who will explore the complexities of school violence from their disciplines’ perspectives. Wendy Paterson, dean of the School of Education, will moderate the panel and the ensuing discussion including questions and responses from the audience. The public, as well as the campus community, is invited to attend.

Panelists

Dwight Hennessey, professor, Psychology

Michael MacLean, associate professor, Psychology

Joan McCool, director, Weigel Wellness Center

Alexander Means, assistant professor, Social and Psychological Foundations of Education

Nanci Monaco, associate professor, Elementary Education and Reading

Andrea Nikischer, assistant professor, Adult Education

Jim Sobol, associate professor and chair, Criminal Justice

Topics will include what is known about school shooters, adolescent development, the importance of peer disclosure, and ways to intervene to prevent a shooting from happening.

“As always, it is the responsibility of the college to engage our students, faculty, staff, and the community in discussions of complex issues, sometimes prompted by catastrophic events,” said Paterson.

“We want to share the research, knowledge, and perspectives of our experts on education, criminal justice, and mental health with the campus and the community. We also want to continue to provide our teacher candidates with a responsive and responsible environment where they can explore even the most difficult issues facing teachers and schools today. In 2012, when I became dean of the School of Education, it was my sad duty to commemorate the sacrifices made at Sandy Hook. The issues are complex, but resolution is critical: we must find a way to end school shootings.” 

WBFO-FM: Buff State discussion on school violence to look beyond gun debate