Two bombs exploded yesterday at the Boston Marathon finish line. As of press time, three people are dead and more than 150 are injured.
Many MPI members are concerned about our colleagues in the Boston community, and we reached out to Michelle Johnson, president of the New England Chapter, for more information and her account of the day.
“At this time, I have not heard of anyone in the chapter in harm’s way,” she said. “I will keep you posted.”
“It was a bit of an insane day,” Johnson said reflecting on the events of yesterday. “I was there, not at the finish line, but was at the Red Sox game walking toward the Back Bay when we saw SWAT teams arriving and lots of helicopters above. I had no idea what was going on. Then I saw so many people crying and on phones, still no clue. I started talking to people and hearing that bombs went off at the finish line. So scary—cell phones were not working and texts were coming in but only when coverage opened up. I’m sure there was a flurry of activity and need for connections.”
MPI Central Michigan University students were also working at the marathon.
“Courtney Stanley, who works for me, was there with them,” Johnson said. “We texted as she was leaving the city. I’m happy to hear they are safe.”
For now, the chapter will continue its day-to-day business.
“We have a meeting scheduled for Wednesday night, and at this time I have asked that we keep it as status quo,” Johnson said. “If anything, this is a time when our community needs to come together and pause to reflect on today’s events and move forward. Boston is a very strong community and will rise above this tragic experience. We will know more tomorrow, and I will be on top of where our people are and keeping in communication with our teams. If it becomes in any way unsafe for this meeting to continue, I will pull the plug as I am advised.”