A message from Dean of the College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, Christa Acampora, regarding the hostilities in Israel and Gaza
October 10, 2023
Dear Faculty and Staff Colleagues in Arts & Sciences,
I am writing to share a message from University leadership (please see below) concerning the events currently unfolding in Israel and Gaza which are felt in communities around the world.
Over the weekend, the University reached out to all UVA students with addresses in the region and to those studying and traveling abroad. Our Global Studies office has also been looking after the safety of faculty and staff with registered travel plans in the region. Please know that university resources are available to support all members of our community. In addition to those listed in the Student Affairs email below, UVA’s Faculty and Employee Assistance Program (FEAP) is available for A&S faculty and staff.
Our own community includes people who have family, friends, and loved ones, Israelis and Palestinians and other nationalities, who are impacted by the ongoing violence and uncertainty. Human suffering occurs every day—each time, it is unique and incomparable. It can be painful to be confronted with daily images in the media. At the same time, that barrage can make us insensitive to the experiences of others. But I have observed that a distinctive feature of UVA is the way in which people openly and frequently express love for each other and demonstrate genuine care. Please continue to do so in these difficult times.
Sincerely,
Christa
Christa D. Acampora
Buckner W. Clay Professor of Philosophy and Dean
College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
University of Virginia
Monday, October 9, 2023
Dear Students,
We hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe and well. Considering recent events in the Middle East, we wanted to take a moment to express our heartfelt concern and solidarity with all members of our community, especially those with family and friends in the affected regions.
University leadership is following the widening conflict with deep concern, especially for our community’s family and friends in the affected region. We have been in touch with our students in or en route to the region and are pleased to report they are currently safe. We will remain in close touch with them in the days ahead.
We have communicated with our international students from the region to help in coping with stress and any academic challenges in connection with this difficult situation.
We recognize that these events – as well as conflicts and devastating natural disasters in other parts of the world – can have an impact on your daily life. Please know that we are committed to supporting you through this challenging time.
Members of our Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) team are here to help. You can schedule an initial appointment by calling 434-243-5150 or by going to HealthyHoos . CAPS is also available on an emergency basis by calling this same number. Additionally, students can access TalkNow through the TimelyCare app. TalkNow allows students to connect with a mental health professional any time of day from any location, either by phone or video. Staff are ready to assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our offices with any questions or concerns through this email address -- vpsa@virginia.edu.
Sincerely, Christopher Holstege Interim Vice President and Chief Student Affairs Officer Cedric Bernard Rucker Interim Senior Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students