NOVA Stands Ready to Support Ukranian Students, Families

Last week, a member of the NOVA community reached out to me to ask why I had not issued a statement on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. All of us have watched this tragic event unfold in horror, and my heart goes out to the Ukrainian people and all impacted by the invasion. NOVA does not have a practice of issuing statements on international conflicts. However, this does not mean that we are not responding to the crisis as it impacts our students.

Since the beginning of the invasion, NOVA’s International Student Office has reached out to students from the region to offer support. In addition, recognizing the impact that any U.S. engagement in the conflict could have in our region, our Office of Military and Veteran Services is prepared to support students called into active duty and NOVA students in the families of active duty personnel. We also continue to promote TimelyCare mental health services for all students who need assistance, and Employee Assistance Program services for NOVA employees.

In the months ahead, should NOVA be asked by state and federal authorities to provide temporary emergency shelter for Ukrainian refugees, we will immediately step forward to do so, as we did last August for Afghan refugees. 

Finally, like you, I have wondered what I could do to help; a friend shared this Charity Navigator list of reputable, results-driven organizations working on the ground in Ukraine and in the region providing humanitarian aid and relief.

Thank you for caring for and about our students and colleagues from and with family in Ukraine: this connection and empathy are what make our community special and bring hope in even the darkest hours.

Anne