Old Dominion University has shared a heartfelt statement after one of its former students, Renee Nicole Good, was shot dead by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
Renee was 37 years old. She graduated from Old Dominion University in Virginia in December 2020. She earned a degree in English. The university confirmed her academic background after news of her death spread.
The university’s president, Brian O. Hemphill, said the campus community is deeply saddened. He described Renee as one of their own and a proud member of the Monarch family. He said her death has left many in shock and pain.
In his statement, Hemphill offered prayers and support to Renee’s family, friends, and loved ones. He also mentioned the wider university community, saying they are mourning together.
He said the tragedy reflects a troubling reality in the country. He pointed out that fear and violence are becoming far too common. He added that many communities across the nation are feeling deep stress and heartbreak.
Renee was a US citizen. She was also the mother of a 6 year old son. Her identity was confirmed by her mother, Donna Ganger, shortly after the shooting.
Hemphill said citizens have both the right and responsibility to speak up. He called on leaders and officials to restore civility and humanity. He stressed that this is especially important when harm comes from those meant to protect people.
He ended his message by remembering Renee’s life rather than just her death. He said her life should remind people of shared values like freedom, love, and peace. He also expressed hope for compassion, healing, and reflection during what he described as one of the darkest and most uncertain times in the nation’s history.
The statement has added to growing calls for accountability and justice as anger and grief continue to spread following the shooting.
