March 15, 2019

A message to the University of Delaware Community,

Our hearts go out to families and friends of the victims of today’s shootings at the New Zealand mosques, to the members of the Muslim community and to the people of New Zealand, a country that has been a welcoming host to so many University of Delaware students over the years. The senseless violence wrought on so many individuals during Friday Prayer is deeply disturbing and saddens us all.

On behalf of the entire University of Delaware community, I extend our sincere condolences to all those families and friends affected by this violent, hate-filled act.

For members of our University community who are are troubled by this news, please know that there are resources available here to help you, and they are listed at the bottom of this letter.

At the University of Delaware, we continue to commit ourselves to a more peaceful and inclusive world where our humanity and personal beliefs are respected.

Sincerely,
Dennis Assanis
President

Assistance for Students:

RAs or Residence Hall Coordinators for students living in residence halls

Office of the Dean of Students for connection to on- and off-campus resources (you can call 302-831-8939 to schedule appointment or stop by Room 101 of Hullihen Hall)

Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) for international students and scholars in need of support, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (phone: 302-831-2115)

Center for Counseling & Student Development (CCSD) for students in need of support, open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., M-F (phone: 302-831-2141)

UD Helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week (phone: 302-831-1001)

Student Diversity and Inclusion: Staff within these areas are prepared to speak to any students about their experience on this campus

Students affected by this tragedy who are looking for community support to process it are welcome to consider joining an activity of the Muslim Student Association, msadelaware@gmail.com

Assistance for Employees:

HMS/Health Advocates provides UD-benefitted employees with counseling needs 24/7 (phone: 800-343-2186 – give the the name: STATE OF DELAWARE. This password also applies to online access on the website)

On-campus counseling services with Cecily Sawyer-Harmon, who is available Wednesdays and Thursdays at the STAR Campus, 8:30am – 3:30pm (phone: 302-831-3987)