Dear graduate students:
On behalf of The Graduate School, I wanted to extend a note to you about the conflict in Ukraine and share a message with our community about resources available to you at UNC-Chapel Hill.
During this past week, we have all witnessed escalating violence between Russia and Ukraine. Even from thousands of miles away, this news is on the global stage—and affects the future of democracy. As Chancellor Kevin Guskiewicz said in a message late last week: “As a global university, we know there are people in our community who are deeply impacted by these events and are scared for their home country, families and friends.” That community includes our graduate students and those who support them. The Graduate School is part of that network of support—especially when global events add to an already stressful time.
I want to remind you about the Heels Care Network, a mental health and well-being resource designed to create a culture of compassion and care at Carolina. The Heels Care Network is a resource for us all as we seek to build and maintain communities. Both Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and Student Wellness envision a campus culture that is safe, equitable, and well. Lastly, our Diversity and Student Success initiative with a focus on international graduate students provides a community of support.
This conflict affects many in our community, and we encourage you to seek available resources and to take care of your well-being—including mental, emotional, physical—during this time of challenge and conflict.
Suzanne Barbour
Dean, The Graduate School