Dear Columbia Community,
As we continue to witness the devastating aftermath of the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, we are reaching out to share our heartfelt sympathy to those impacted either directly or indirectly, and to share University resources that may be helpful at this moment. The scale of loss from this disaster is both difficult to grasp and far from over.
When natural disasters strike, the University reaches out directly to Columbia affiliates from the impacted region, a process we have followed this week, as well. We continue to hear from students, faculty, and staff impacted by the events in Turkey and Syria. You may have seen President Bollinger’s statement earlier this week and this article from Columbia News about how Columbians are taking action.
We write today to ensure that all members of the Columbia community who need support as a result of this disaster, especially those who have friends, family, and loved ones in the region, are connected to University resources.
Events like this can be difficult to process and distressing to many. We encourage you to access the support you may need. And, if you see a classmate, friend, or colleague struggling, take a moment to check in.
Please remember that University resources are also available to you and your peers, should you need them:
Resources for Students
Resources for Faculty and Staff
The University offers many mental health and well-being resources including the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which can help support any Columbia employee. The EAP offers a 24-hour hotline for personal, confidential counseling and referrals to professional services at 1-844-636-1260 (TTY: 711).
Donations and Support for Earthquake Victims
Many in our community wish to support disaster responses in Turkey and Syria. Our colleagues at Barnard have organized a list of humanitarian organizations for you to consult and consider, should you wish to donate financially.
We are with you all at this moment of profound sadness and are here to support the entire community in whatever way we can.
We are always available at [email protected] and [email protected].
Sincerely,
Mary C. Boyce (she/her/hers)
Provost
Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Gerald M. Rosberg (he/him/his)
Senior Executive Vice President
Katrina Armstrong, MD (she/her/hers)
Dean of the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons
Executive Vice President of Health and Biomedical Sciences, Columbia University
Dennis A. Mitchell (he/him/his)
Executive Vice President for University Life
Senior Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement
Professor of Dental Medicine at CUMC
