5/21/2021
To our student community,
As you are likely aware, escalated violence has affected people in Jerusalem, Gaza, and other places in the Middle East in recent days. Although a ceasefire in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has recently been reached, members of our own University community are among those who have suffered or are suffering a great deal of pain and loss. This type of suffering cannot be fully expressed in words, and moreover, is not always obvious or even visible to others.
While some members of our community may not feel directly impacted by these events, we encourage students to be conscious, kind, and compassionate to their peers during this difficult time, and encourage faculty and staff to demonstrate understanding and accommodation for those affected by this violence. Together, we can support our entire community through these acts of unity.
No matter where you are in your academic or professional career at U-M, it can be incredibly difficult to navigate these emotions and concerns. However, you don’t have to manage this alone. Although many of you will be away from Ann Arbor and our campus for the summer, campus resources and support remain available to you during this difficult time, including:
Resources for students
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) mental health professionals provide support to individuals from a wide array of identities, including traditionally marginalized or disenfranchised groups. CAPS continually offers confidential, culturally-informed services and provides support for navigating national/world events impacting psychological well-being.
- Dean of Students Office (DOS) staff provide direct support and assistance to students who are encountering anything that is interrupting their Michigan experience, and can also make referrals to other services, including Campus Climate Support and restorative pathways through the Office of Student Conflict Resolution.
- Center for Campus Involvement (CCI) recognizes a diverse body of student organizations where students may find community, support, and dialogue with peers. To find a student organization that meets your interests and needs, browse Maize Pages or make an Involvement Drop-In Appointment with a staff member.
- Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives (OAMI) is available to meet, counsel or coach any students in need by making an appointment with a staff member.
Resources for faculty and staff
- Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office
(734) 936-8660 or fascco@umich.edu - Michigan Medicine Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience
(734) 763-5409 or counseling@med.umich.edu
Please don’t hesitate to seek help. Your well-being is important to us and our community.
Robert M. Sellers
Vice Provost for Equity & Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer
Martino Harmon
Vice President for Student Life
