Dear Students,
As we approach the end of the semester, we know many are exhausted after what has been an incredibly trying year since the pandemic caused us to separate last March. The end of any academic year is difficult, and there’s no denying that the pandemic has individually affected us, in different and profound ways. More than ever, we must be patient and kind to ourselves and each other.
For the next six weeks, it will be crucial that we all take care of each other. It’s what caring communities do. If you are struggling in any way, please seek help. If you see another student struggling, please encourage them to get help. We continue to invest in resources to support you. They can be found on the Phoenix Cares website or the resource, SilverCloud. In the fall, the University will implement the Kognito online and blended learning programs for student, faculty and staff development that are tailored to the academic setting with a primary focus on mental health and suicide prevention. Asking for help can be difficult, but it is also a vital for those who need support. Please use it and remember that reaching out for help and support is the ultimate sign of strength.
We value hard work and dedication, but more importantly we must value our mental and physical health. We encourage you to communicate as much as possible. Practice self-care. Support each other. Please try to get outside, take a break, and keep your education in perspective. You are almost finished with the semester and the weather is starting to turn for the better. You can do this; we believe in you.
In the last weeks of the semester, we want you to do our best to celebrate our ability to persevere and even thrive this year. We are inspired by what our students have been able to accomplish together.
On Thursday from 9:00-11:00 and Friday 8:00-10:00 this week, we will be outside of the new Coffee Shop in the Student Union. If you are on campus, please come by, say hi, and we can have a quick conversation so we can hear how you are doing. Let’s do something radical and interact. Carefully, not in large groups, wearing masks, etc., but interact. The coffee (or tea) is on us.
Keep going. Don’t stop believing. And please take care of yourselves and each other.
Warmly,
Michael Alexander
Chancellor
Corey King
Vice Chancellor for Inclusivity and Student Affairs
Kate Burns
Interim Provost of Academic Affairs