Seeking Peace in the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
As a teaching and research university dedicated to public service on a global scale, Northwestern’s purpose is to bring its energies and scholarship to bear on events such as this.”
The Northwestern community grieves for those who have suffered at the outset of a fateful new war in Europe, mindful that a number of people on our campuses have been affected directly or indirectly by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We stand with those who urgently seek peace, diplomacy and the well-being of all involved.
No one can predict the consequences of the conflict in Ukraine. Yet as an academic community, we all can take action, individually and collectively. I’m proud that our faculty members have been informing and shaping the public discourse and that they are creating more opportunities on our campuses for conversation that can lead to action. I’m also grateful for our staff members who have been reaching out to students whose families may be impacted by the crisis.
While this moment is a particularly difficult one for many on our campus, the University has resources available to provide support for those who need it, including CAPS, Religious & Spiritual Life and Student Assistance and Support Services. Staff in the Dean of Students Office, Multicultural Student Affairs and all of Campus Inclusion and Community also are available to help. Faculty and staff can access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides a network of services including free and confidential short-term counseling.
As a teaching and research university dedicated to public service on a global scale, Northwestern’s purpose is to bring its energies and scholarship to bear on events such as this. May we seek to do so in the days, weeks and months ahead — and may we become a more deeply caring and compassionate community along the way.