Dean's Message: Taking care in the days ahead
Dear College Community,
It is a contentious and difficult time in our country. I am writing to reiterate that, no matter the outcome, the College remains committed to our values of developing students into critical thinkers and changemakers, of creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive space for learning and teaching, and of being ethical, accountable and transparent. We also stand firmly by the principles that rigorous scientific inquiry represents the best means for addressing societal issues and developing rational policy with regard to pressing social issues such as climate change, food insecurity, and healthcare.
We have just experienced one of the most polarizing and divisive election cycles in history. Right now, many of you may be feeling stressed and anxious about the future. With the pandemic still affecting all our lives - in more ways and perhaps for a much longer time than we ever might have imagined - we look for our community to remain resilient and strong. The most important steps in this are to stay grounded, take care of yourselves, and look to provide strength to, or derive strength from, others around you.
If you find that, in spite of this, you are struggling to manage stress or anxiety or carry out your daily activities, we remind you here that KU and the Lawrence community offers resources that you may find helpful in the coming time to support your success, mental health, and wellbeing.
- Counseling & Psychological Services: Assist students in improving decision-making; identifying and using resources; and achieving academic, social and personal success.
- Headquarters Counseling Center: Provides life-saving, 24-hour crisis services.
- Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center: responding to needs, restoring lives, and building a healthy community.
- University Ombuds Office: A confidential, impartial, informal, and independent office on campus where members of the campus community can discuss issues they may be facing as a student, staff, or faculty member.
- Emily Taylor Center for Women & Gender Equity: Seeks to engage and empower the community to act in ways that promote intersectional feminist change through expansive programming around gender and identity.
- Office of Multicultural Affairs: Cultivating an inclusive campus community through social justice and academic success.
- Campus Cupboard: A food pantry for KU students, faculty, staff and affiliates.
No matter what you're feeling at this moment, we want you to know that the College remains a community of scholars, staff, and students committed to your health, your safety, and your intellectual and emotional well-being.
Sincerely,
John