March 4, 2022
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine
Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine last week has shocked the university community — indeed, much of the world. Our thoughts are with the peaceful people of Ukraine, many of whom are bravely resisting the war waged upon them. For many years, Alberta’s large Ukrainian community has enriched our province, and our university is committed to providing tangible support to those impacted. This is especially so for the many Ukrainian students who chose to study at the University of Calgary.
When the war began, the university immediately offered support to these students. From mental health support as they naturally worried about family and friends, to bursaries as accessing funds from home may become increasingly difficult. Further, we are working to ensure students admitted to the University of Calgary who are currently in Ukraine are still able to join us.
If you or someone you know needs emergency financial or mental health supports, Student Wellness Services can help. Or you can call 403-210-9355. (After-hours options are also available for mental health support.)
Additional supports are also available:
- Faith and Spirituality Centre, which can be reached through interfaith@ucalgary.ca
- International Student Services, providing holistic support for international students concerned about immigration or application status through issimmigration@ucalgary.ca
- Assistance is also available for members of staff through the Employee Wellness Centre
If you would like to help, I would like to draw your attention to efforts by the Ukrainian Students’ Society to raise funds to provide humanitarian support for Ukrainians through the Red Cross. Donations, which can be made here, support Ukraine as well as Ukrainian refugees in neighbouring countries.
Ed McCauley
President and Vice-Chancellor