|
Here in America’s “Can Do” City, today was a reminder of why investing in our young people matters. We had the privilege of welcoming students from 71st High School to City Hall, and their thoughtful questions, curiosity, and positive insights made for an energizing conversation about public service, local decision-making, and how residents help shape Fayetteville’s future. If your school, civic club, or neighborhood group would like to schedule a visit or tour, please reach out to Michele Smith-Riordan at (910) 433-1854. We’d love to host you and keep this dialogue going.
I also want to speak from the heart about the recent loss our community is experiencing. Our heartfelt sympathies are with the family of the three young members of the E.E. Smith 1800 Family, and we offer our prayers for healing for the other passenger. May God grant you strength during this trying time. We are here for you.
We know that a loss like this ripples far beyond immediate families. It touches classmates, teammates, educators, coaches, alumni, and neighbors across our city. Grief has no timetable, and it shows up differently for each of us. Let’s make space for that by reaching out to one another, listening without judgment, and checking in on the students and staff who are carrying a heavy emotional load. If you or someone you love needs support, please consider speaking with a counselor, or a trusted faith leader. Asking for help is a sign of courage, not weakness.
As we mourn, we can also honor the young lives we’ve lost by choosing compassion in our daily actions, by showing up for school activities, supporting our youth programs, driving with care near our campuses and neighborhoods, and reminding our students that they are valued and seen. America’s Can-Do City is a resilient one, and that resilience is built on love, respect, and the everyday ways we lift each other up. Together, we will carry these families in our hearts and walk beside them in the days ahead.
Dr. Douglas J. Hewett
| 
