Mizzou Prof and Director of Student Life Issue Statement

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"As a student affairs professional, I take my responsibility to students very seriously. Yesterday, I allowed my emotions to get the best of me while trying to protect some of our students. Instead of defusing an already tense situation, I contributed to its escalation. I regret how I handled the situation, and I am offering a public apology to the journalist involved.

I have the utmost respect for journalists and the profession of journalism. I have devoted my career to helping students learn and develop outside the classroom. What happened on Carnahan Quadrangle has been a lesson for me. I am deeply sorry for what happened.”

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Click released an apology to the Department of Communication Tuesday evening, saying, "Yesterday was a historic day at MU- full of emotion and confusion. I have reviewed and reflected upon the video of me that is circulating, and have written this statement to offer both apology and context for my actions. I have reached out to the journalists involved to offer my sincere apologies and to express regret over my actions. I regret the language and strategies I used, and sincerely apologize to the MU campus community, and journalists at large, for my behavior, and also for the way my actions have shifted attention away from the students' campaign for justice. My actions were shaped by exasperation with a few spirited reporters. From this experience I have learned about humanity and humility. When I apologized to Tim Tai in a phone call this afternoon, he accepted my apology. I believe he is doing a difficult job, and I am grateful to hav ehad the opportunity to speak with him. His dignity also speaks well to the journalism program at MU. Again, I wish to express my sincere apology for my actions on the Carnahan Quad yesterday."

Click is a member of the MU Communications Department, and prior to Tuesday held a courtesy appointment in the School of Journalism.

The MU Department of Communication released a statement Tuesday saying it would not comment on personnel matters.

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