Associated Press

ABERDEEN, S.D. – As Northern State University copes with the suspicious death of a professor, President Patrick Schloss says he will look out for the safety of the school’s 2,400 students as though they were his own children.

“You’re my kids and I care about you just as if you were my family,” said Schloss, who has dealt with multiple crimes and tragedies during work at larger universities.

“There is no cost that we won’t bear to ensure security,” he said.

Morgan N. Lewis, 46, was found dead outside a classroom and office building on campus early last Monday morning. He died of a gunshot wound to the back of the neck. A gun was found at the scene.

Police have said they are investigating the death but have no suspects, and little new information about the investigation has been provided.

“It’s one of those cases that just takes some time,” Aberdeen Police Chief Don Lanpher Jr. said. “We have to conduct interviews and find background information. An investigation like this isn’t done overnight.”

He said Lewis’ death is still being classified as “suspicious.”

In the wake of the tragedy, NSU has stepped up security measures, and increased its escort service and police presence. Schloss has also asked students to follow various safety procedures such as not being out between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.

Schloss said he’s confident things will work out fine “if you have a good heart (and) … do the right thing.”

Lewis taught German at Northern State and at Aberdeen Central High School.