Dear campus community,

As the world watches the military action in Ukraine, I want to reach out to those members of our Spartan community who have family, friends, colleagues, or roots in Ukraine and the region. For many the last weeks have been stressful and frustrating, moving now to terror. For those members of our Spartan community who are veterans, currently active in the military, have loved ones in the military or hail from military units that may be deployed to this region, the days and weeks to come will also be a source of worry, anxiety, and frustration. And there are many of us who are simply distressed at the violence and significance of these world events.

When conflict of this level occurs anywhere in the world, members of our campus community of students, staff, faculty, volunteers, and alumni are invariably impacted, sometimes gravely. Many aspects of our identity and connections are visible only to those closest to us. We ask that you continue to treat each other with grace and support.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Wong(Lau)
Chief Diversity Officer
Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As a reminder whether you are seeking support yourself or for others in our community:

Students and employees have access to emotional support and counseling services. Students are encouraged to contact Counseling and Psychological Services or SJSU Cares and employees are encouraged to contact the Employee Assistance Program.

For those interested in contributing to support those affected by the conflict, the LA Times has an article with a list of non-profit organizations.