Continuing support for our community
November 28, 2022
Dear Brandeis Community,
As our classes resumed today for the first time since the shuttle accident on Nov. 19, I know returning to our previous routines is challenging for many, and impossible for some students who are still recovering from injury. For many of us, gratitude for the opportunity to spend Thanksgiving with family and friends was accompanied by sadness about the loss of Vanessa Mark, and concern for her family, friends, and for everyone involved in the accident.
It's important for our students to know that the faculty and staff at Brandeis understand there is nothing routine about what many of them are currently experiencing. In the next few days, we will be sharing information about additional emotional and academic support, particularly for affected students. We will also be informing students about transportation changes for the conclusion of this semester and beyond. A general transportation study has been underway since the summer, and we will be making changes based on that study, the accident, and the results of the investigation by outside agencies, once it has been completed. Additionally, we are planning a memorial service for Vanessa to be held before the conclusion of the semester, and specifics will be provided later this week.
Our Community Care and Comfort website features information on programming and events, like the therapy dogs and other opportunities to take calming breaks. I would also remind everyone that even as we continue developing specific ways to support students around this accident, our ongoing options of seeking help remain available. Students who need financial help related to the accident may seek emergency funds, and community members may contribute to help affected students. The Brandeis Counseling Center can be reached 24-7 at 781-736-3730 and is available to assist students at any time. The Dean of Students Office, the Office of Graduate Student Affairs, and the Center for Spiritual Life continue to be open for students. Staff and faculty who may be struggling can get help through the Employee Assistance Plan. And we encourage anyone with specific information about a struggling student to share their concerns with Brandeis by completing a Care Report.
As those who are able to return to campus spend the next few weeks together, I am confident our students, staff, and faculty will remember and include students who are still recuperating at home. Thank you to all of the faculty and staff who have been supporting our students throughout this time, and I commend our students for the numerous ways they have continued to express their concern and care for one another.
Sincerely,
Ron