AWP notes with sorrow the death of Professor Lawrence Levine, who died, with many of his students, while teaching a writing class at Umpqua Community College in the mass shooting there on October 1. Levine held a master’s degree in creative writing from the University of Oregon and had taught creative writing and composition for many years. AWP honors all those who give the utmost to their students every day, and we honor Professor Levine for his commitment to writing, teaching, and learning. The murder of those who have come together peacefully to study in a school is a crime not only against individuals but also against civilization itself. We call upon those in all levels of government to work together to create an environment where Americans can read, study, and learn in safety and in peace.

For more information, read a profile of Lawrence Levine.