Don’t Go It Alone. Access the Strength of Our Community
Today’s topic is the importance of a strong NOVA community.
By almost every measure, this is a time of great stress and anxiety. The personal challenges and stressors confronting many of us at this moment are profound and can feel overwhelming. These concerns and pressures can be amplified by the crises and conflicts in the world around us, including Saturday’s attempted assassination of former President Trump, which stunned our nation. They are also reflected much closer to home: on Friday, a deceased NOVA student was found on our Woodbridge Campus, a tragic death that is being investigated by the Prince William County police. The loss of a student is heartbreaking, and I know you join me in extending thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort to their family and friends at this most difficult time.
No community is immune from the issues impacting our broader society, but I want you to know that I am committed to creating a safe and supportive learning and working environment. Today, I write to highlight the resources you can access at NOVA and share the steps that we are taking to address a changing landscape of risk.
NOVA provides all students and employees with 24/7 access to tele-mental health services through TimelyCare. Our Office of Wellness and Mental Health (OWMH) focuses its work on offering services and interventions, including a searchable database of behavioral health providers, many of whom offer reduced cost services to NOVA students. NOVA faculty and staff have access to behavioral health services through the Employee Assistance Program, and our Chief Wellness Officer provides a portfolio of resources to promote wellness and well-being.
Each of us also has the power to connect with others, to reach out with a kind and encouraging word, a gesture of gratitude, or a simple hello. Together, we can model the care, inclusion, and respect that anchor our NOVA values and reflect a strong and supportive college culture. Together, we can create a sense of belonging for our colleagues and our students, one in which each member of our community feels valued and valuable.
NOVA is also updating aspects of our campuses to address emerging risks. This past year, we installed barrier fencing on the roof decks of our parking garages and are now exploring options for adding barriers on the other floors, as well. VP Ferrari and his team are now reviewing ways we can restrict access to our lakes, and when students return this fall, they will find 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline signage in high traffic areas, including parking garages and outdoor areas. NOVA Police are trained in crisis intervention and response and can be reached in an emergency by dialing 911. Every classroom has clear signage outlining the steps to take in an emergency, and beginning this fall, in keeping with Virginia HB 713, all students will receive campus safety and emergency preparedness training. Finally, the ad hoc Taskforce on Student Conduct and Campus Safety is continuing its work this summer and has developed recommendations that will be implemented beginning this fall. (Taskforce notes are posted on NOVAnet under the Committees/Ad Hoc Committees link.)
With so much uncertainty around us, this can be a difficult time, but none of us has to go it alone. NOVA is more than a college; we are a community—together. I am proud to be a part of our caring community and grateful to you for all you do every day to support each other and our students.
Anne