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Vanderbilt University
Dear students, 
As violence continues in Israel and Gaza, we are reaching out to assure you of our commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of every member of our community. We want every student at Vanderbilt to feel a sense of safety and belonging, and there is no place for discrimination or prejudice, including antisemitism, Islamophobia and xenophobia, on our campus. These values are clearly laid out in Vanderbilt’s Non-Discrimination Statement.
During this time, Vanderbilt University Police Department has enhanced security across campus, including at student spaces and events, and we ask that students report any incidents of discrimination or discriminatory harassment to the Equal Opportunity and Access (EOA) office using the online report form. EOA will follow up on all reports. Student Affairs staff are available to help students navigate the reporting process. If you have any questions or need support reporting information, please email deanofstudents@vanderbilt.edu. 
Last week, the chancellor shared some of the ways we, as One Vanderbilt, have come together in response to the heartrending events that have unfolded. We encourage you to continue to do so as a caring community during this incredibly tumultuous and difficult period. It is during times like this that our shared commitment to belonging, and to supporting one another, becomes even more important. 
The following events are taking place this evening to provide space for reflection and community connection:
  • The Multicultural Leadership Council is hosting a de-stress event today, Oct. 17, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Fleming Yard. Come enjoy Tiff’s Treats and hot cocoa and connect with other students. 
  • The Center for Spiritual and Religious Life is hosting Mapping the Self, an art healing workshop, this evening, Oct. 17, at 6 p.m. Attendees will learn about and engage in kosha mapping, a drawing meditation practice that will guide you through various layers of self to awaken creative awareness.
As always, Student Affairs is available to support you whether you need personalized support through our Student Care Network or are looking to find belonging and connection in our identity centers.
Student Affairs resources that may be helpful include:
  • Student Care Coordination staff are here to connect with students to get a better understanding of your needs and recommend university resources that may help. Schedule an appointment online or call 615-343-WELL (9355). You can also visit Drop-In Hours for quick access to a Student Care Coordinator. 
  • The Center for Spiritual and Religious Life is available to students of any faith and offers a GriefNet Support Network. The center and our affiliated chaplains can provide information about prayer spaces on campus, student-led religious organizations and places of worship in the Nashville community.
  • The Student Center for Social Justice and Identity is available to support students by calling 615-322-5089 or emailing scsji@vanderbilt.edu.  
  • University Counseling Center – If you have an urgent need to meet with a counselor, call the UCC at 615-322-2571. Students can be connected to an urgent care counselor Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., and after hours and on weekends.
  • The UCC also offers drop-in consultations, where students have easy access to informal, confidential consultations with UCC counselors who can provide insight, solutions and referrals to other campus partners. 
Please also do not hesitate to reach out with any questions and concerns. 
Sincerely, 
G.L. Black 
Vice Provost for Student Affairs and Dean of Students 
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