Dean's Messages

The magnitude of recent events

May 02, 2024

Dear CSSW Community,

I write to you today during a most challenging time for our university, our city, our country, and our world. I write with an understanding that most of us are still processing all that has happened over the last few weeks, especially the arrests of CSSW and other students on our campus. This is extremely painful.  These events have undoubtedly stirred emotions and raised tensions among us.

In my 35 years at Columbia University, I have witnessed a myriad of events and struggles. The deep-seated pain and division that I have witnessed this year, however, are unprecedented. The war in Gaza that has resulted in the suffering of so many Palestinians and Israelis is being felt everywhere. It has also increased the pervasiveness of Antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab hate. We are witnessing tremendous suffering.  The events of recent days have brought forth a range of emotions – frustration, anger, sadness, and perhaps even fear. It is okay to feel these emotions, and it is important to find ways to support one another as we navigate through them. While we may disagree on many things, we must find a way to remain in community. 

Words seem completely inadequate in moments like this. They are a poor substitute for what we are urgently seeking—to be seen, to be heard, and to be in community. I do not have any ready answers on what it will look like for us to move forward. Like many of us, I am still processing all that has occurred. I do know, however, that the path forward must be paved with our commitment to fostering open dialogue, understanding, and respect within our community. We must seek common ground and work together towards solutions that reflect our values and principles.

We will continue to hold office hours for us to convene and meet to process together; we are inviting external individuals and organizations to support us in navigating difficult conversations, and are in the midst of planning a series of other events to support our community through the summer and into the new school year. If you have recommendations please send them to [email protected].  

Our Advising Team continues to be available to provide support to students whenever needed –  including those who may have been suspended or arrested. They have been working tirelessly to respond around the clock to each and every student who has been seeking support and resources in these challenging moments; and doing so in a confidential way to protect students’ right to privacy. If you are a student who is struggling, or if you see that a particular student may be struggling and could benefit from more support, please contact our advising office ([email protected]). Below, you will find additional resources that are available to students, staff, and faculty. 

I want to thank the graduation committee for their hard work over the last few months. We are working closely with the University leadership and commencement team, and will have more to report in the coming days. 

The magnitude of recent events affects all of us. Many questions are being asked, and I know that not having the answers increases the frustration. Please know that I am committed to working together with social work values as my North Star.  

In community,

Melissa 

Resources for faculty and staff:

 

Resources for students:

University Counseling and Psychological Services

  • Morningside / Manhattanville Campuses: (212) 854-2878

  • CUIMC Campus: (212) 305-3400

Students currently abroad may call International SOS and ask to speak to an Enhanced Emotional Support Counselor at (215) 942-8478.

University Health Services

Other Offices