Norfolk Public Schools Staff Support ODU Students Upon Return to Campus

Norfolk Public Schools (NPS) mental health experts supported the return of Old Dominion University (ODU) students on Monday, March 23 and Tuesday, March 24 on campus. NPS staff did not hesitate to step up and assist Monarchs after the tragic loss of life of Lt. Col. Brandon A. Shah on Thursday, March 12, 2026, as well as helping ODU students deal with the aftermath.

As the campus reopened after Spring Break, NPS mental health employees did their part to make Monarchs feel safe. They dedicated time to supporting students by providing information about available campus resources, including in-person support groups, virtual support platforms, and connections to ODU counselors.

Thank you to the following seven NPS staff who helped ODU students over a two-day period:

• Dr. Dennis Moore, NPS Senior Director of Student Wellness
• Ann Burney, NPS Lead School Social Worker
• Jordon Washington-Trahan, NPS Social Worker
• Kristin Bates, NPS Social Worker
• Lakia James, NPS Social Worker
• Sarah James, NPS Social Worker
• Marcela Colonnieves, NPS Social Worker

According to Dr. Moore, “Supporting ODU students in the aftermath of the ROTC shooting was very meaningful. There was a significant need to help students feel safe and supported while they processed a range of emotions including fear, uncertainty, and grief. As a three-time graduate of Old Dominion University, the experience was also personal. ODU is more than a university to me. It is a place that helped shape who I am. Because of that connection, I felt especially grateful to be in a position to give back and support students during such a difficult time.”

NPS employees carved out time to support students by engaging students in meaningful conversations about their feelings regarding returning to campus, as well as their experiences related to the widespread social media and global attention surrounding recent events.

NPS Social Worker Washington-Trahan exclaimed, “Supporting ODU students and faculty was a very humbling experience. This situation occurred right in our community, and we were able to give back and let the students and faculty know that whatever that they may be feeling, experiencing and thinking is warranted and help is available. I was able to speak with faculty and students prior to the beginning of their class and let them know that support was available. It was vital to also encourage the faculty that they are important in their leadership roles in the classrooms and their well-being is vital to supporting the students as well as themselves. I would love for Norfolk Public Schools to continue to make meaningful partnerships and relationships within the community.”

Additionally, NPS employees helped students develop an understanding of grief, loss, and associated behavioral responses, emphasizing the importance of awareness even for those who may not be currently experiencing these emotions.

NPS Social Worker James welcomed the opportunity to help Monarchs. According to James, “Providing support to the ODU community felt both deeply humbling and incredibly important. It was an honor to support them in such a vulnerable moment and help them feel seen and not alone.”

It initially felt surreal arriving on the ODU campus this week to support students and staff during such a challenging time. As I walked across campus and visited the various classes, it was truly inspiring to witness the community coming together in unity to support one another in response to the recent crisis.

Also, NPS Lead School Social Worker Burney's exclaimed, "Throughout my visit, I provided social-emotional learning (SEL) support, including sharing resources and offering opportunities for connection. I also spent time engaging in informal conversation, recognizing that even simple gestures such a nod, smile, or brief interaction can help foster a sense of presence and belonging." 

NPS stands with ODU during this difficult transition back to campus. NPS is in full support of Monarch Strong.