12/16/2025
The RI Medical Reserve Corps reminded us all what compassionate emergency response looks like.
Following the Brown University shooting, more than 30 RI MRC provided overnight behavioral health support to survivors and the campus community as well as incident support. RI MRC not only brought professional expertise, but genuine care and compassion to those experiencing trauma.
RI MRC volunteers: Your dedication to your community, your empathy for those suffering, and your willingness to give your time and energy during this crisis is the heart of what makes the MRC so vital. You made a real difference in people's lives when they needed it most.
Thank you for your service and for your compassion. The entire MRC family is proud of you.
The RI Behavioral Health Medical Reserve Corps’ Trauma Response Team (TRT) was rapidly deployed in response to the Active Assailant incident at Brown University, providing critical behavioral health and incident support throughout the overnight response.
In coordination with Brown University, Providence Emergency Management Agency, RI EMA, the RI Department of Health, and the RI Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH), TRT supported the establishment and operation of a Reunification Center on the Brown campus. Team members delivered behavioral health support to students and staff while also serving as subject matter experts to incident leadership during a complex, evolving incident.
The RI Behavioral Health MRC is designed to integrate behavioral health capabilities directly into emergency operations, helping to stabilize individuals, reduce acute stress responses, and support communities in the immediate aftermath of traumatic events.
At the same time, members of the RI Medical Reserve Corps provided incident management assistance, logistical support, operational support, and liaison functions. More than 30 MRC members deployed, many with little notice, demonstrating exceptional readiness and professionalism.
Operations were sustained from 4:30 PM Saturday afternoon through 5:30 AM Sunday morning, underscoring the commitment of volunteers and partners working continuously to support the Brown University community.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all responders and partners involved. Our thoughts remain with the students, staff, and families affected as recovery continues.
Brooke Lawrence
Executive Director
rimrc.link/BLawrence
Medical Reserve Corps
Brown University
RI Dept. of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals
Providence, RI Emergency Management Agency - PEMA
Rhode Island Department of Health
Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency
Governor Dan McKee