Over the weekend, Gov. Ron DeSantis condemned the horrific, racially-motivated murders in Jacksonville near Edward Waters University. He announced an initial, immediate award of $1 million through the Volunteer Florida Foundation to bolster campus security at Edward Waters University in addition to an award of $100,000 to help the impacted families of this tragedy.
“We are not going to allow our HBCUs to be targets for hateful scumbags,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis, during a prayer vigil for the victims. “I’ve directed my administration to use every resource available to ensure the Edward Waters campus is safe following this shooting and to help the impacted families as they mourn their loved ones.”
Additionally, starting yesterday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) began visiting the campus, providing additional security including during the vigil, and began monitoring social media for any additional threats. Furthermore, today, FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass is visiting with EWU President Dr. A. Zachary Faison Jr. to begin the assessment of the campus’ security infrastructure.
- DeSantis has also remained in contact with the University President, Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan and Sheriff T.K. Waters to ensure that the community has the resources they need as they process this tragedy.