Dear Clark Students, Faculty, and Staff,

We are devastated and heartbroken by the horrific attacks in Israel and the violence that is spreading throughout the region, and we deplore the terrorism that has been carried out against innocent civilians. We know that many members of our community have been deeply impacted, and are worried and scared. Some have family, friends, loved ones, colleagues, and acquaintances in the area. It is absolutely tragic to see the loss of life and human suffering, and we are here to support those in our community as fully as we can.

Our immediate concern is the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff. We are working to connect with those who have been directly affected. As everyone returns to campus from the fall break, we wanted to make sure you are aware of the resources available to you (listed below). We urge you to reach out if you are in need of support.

Here at Clark, our university community pulls together when we need it the most. We comfort one another. Listen to one another. And seek to move forward together. As a university, we also learn from one another and work to understand even what is incomprehensible, including the very painful events over the past few days. In that spirit, later this week, a group of our faculty experts will be hosting a discussion about the unfolding situation in Israel and Gaza and its wider implications. Details will be shared soon.

Clark, as an institution of higher education — as a community — will continue to engage in the vital discussions that elevate rather than tear down, and, together, will pursue a course that unites rather than divides.

Sincerely,

David Fithian ’87
President

Sebastián Royo
Provost

Kamala Kiem
Associate Provost for Student Success and Dean of Students

Resources

For students, our Student Success Team is always available by email (success@clarku.edu) or phone (508-793-7423). Additional resources include:

• The Academic Support & Care Team is always here for you; please email success@clarku.edu or call 1-508-793-7423
• Counseling & Personal Growth, please email counseling@clarku.edu or call 1-508-793-7678, including the new Uwill resource. If someone is struggling and needs service quickly, Uwill provides the opportunity for them to receive immediate access to an initial appointment. A student who logs in to the Uwill platform will be connected with a therapist immediately and can communicate via video, telephone, or text.
• Jeff Narod, the Executive Director of Clark’s Hillel, has offered to connect personally with students for support; please email jeff.narod@clarku.edu

For Faculty and Staff

• New Directions, our employee assistance program (EAP), accessible through the online portal. Company code: Clark University.