As the world grapples with the global uncertainties wrought by the conflict in Ukraine, I wanted to write to our community to provide an update on steps Brock University is taking to ensure the well-being of our students, faculty and staff.

Brock is home to people from all regions of the world. Thankfully, this is one of the defining features of our University. Being a global campus means unrest and violence in distant locations create significant impacts for many here at Brock. Right now, we are living in times fraught with crisis and calamity. It is during these times of peril that Brock’s well-established commitment to the health, well-being and safety of all students, faculty and staff is paramount.

Since the beginning of the invasion of Ukraine, Brock has provided daily assistance to students of Ukrainian and Russian descent. In the first days of the conflict, I wrote individually to those students to ensure they were aware of the depth and breadth of supports available to them. We remain in constant communication to ensure they have the help they require in a very difficult time. This is an approach we undertake with students from around the world who may find themselves separated or isolated during a period of uncertainty in their home countries or regions.

Further, we are working with partners in government to consider how best Brock can support national and international efforts. In this spirit of community, I encourage each of you to consider how you can make a difference in the lives of those who are impacted. This might include volunteering your time or contributing to one of the many international aid agencies working to alleviate the suffering of those impacted.

We’ve all been through a very difficult two-year pandemic and global events continue to roil our world. At Brock, we cannot and will not overlook the effects this troubling violence has on our community. I am encouraged by the activities of our students, faculty and staff to show kindness and care for one another and I am inspired by the spirit of community to help others.

A reminder, help is available through these University resources:

• Students can call 1-833-276-2533 or 1-833-BROCK33 for personal counselling. If you are outside North America, call 001-416 382-3257.
• Immediate and confidential Employee and Family Assistance is available to all University employees by calling 1-844-880-9137.

Brock students seeking immediate financial support can apply for assistance from the Brock Emergency Student Bursary program.

Members of the community are able to contribute to the Emergency Bursary program by visiting at the Brock University Giving Page and by selecting The Student Emergency Fund in the drop down designation menu.

Thank you again for all that you have done and will do for Brock University and for one another.

Lynn Wells

Interim President