Message from President Armacost

We will continue ‘to make UND a safe and welcoming place, where everyone feels a strong sense of belonging, fairness, and hope,’ president says

While many of our campus community were taking much needed rest during Spring Break, tragic events took place – first in Atlanta, Ga., and then in Boulder, Colo. – resulting in the loss of 18 lives. The University of North Dakota unwaveringly denounces these acts. They are completely at odds with the core values of our University.

The shooting in Atlanta resulted in the deaths of eight people, six of whom were of Asian descent. This comes amid a disturbing national trend of attacks on and harassment of Asians, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). I know many of our Asian and AAPI students, faculty, and staff are experiencing a sense of isolation and vulnerability, and this shooting adds to those feelings. I assure you that we hear your concerns, stand ready to support you, and provide for your safety.

The shooting in Boulder resulted in the deaths of 10 people from all walks of life, including a police officer who responded to the call for help. There will be much we never know about these two events, but it is imperative that we recognize how these violent events can stir emotions for our campus community. It’s important for us to be mindful of the help and services that we have on campus to assist people in coping with and getting through these stressful times.

UND provides services for those feeling the stress and emotional toll of recent events for staff, faculty, and students. In addition, it’s imperative for everyone to be aware of our crisis resources and how to report bias incidents. Another resource for staff and faculty is the confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

An excellent example of a service available to our students is the University Counseling Center (UCC). Among its programs is a virtual support group for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). This provides an opportunity for students to connect, share, and explore personal and global experiences together. The BIPOC Group meets online every Wednesday from 1-2 p.m. If you can’t attend or don’t wish to attend, students may also take advantage of the UCC’s free counseling services.

Finally, as we return from spring break and get back to the business of finishing the remainder of the spring semester, I want to remind everyone of another way we can all do our part to keep our University and our community safe and healthy. I encourage you to embrace the Healthy Hawks spirit and continue to take the necessary actions to get us through the pandemic and regain a sense of normalcy to our lives.

This means getting vaccinated against COVID when you can and as soon as you can. The opportunity for faculty and staff already exists, and vaccinations will be available for students in the coming weeks. And don’t forget that wearing a mask, frequently washing your hands, and continuing to engage in proper physical distancing remain vital practices until we can put the pandemic behind us. I remain hopeful that our fall semester will signal a return to normal, with in-person learning, events, and socializing.

First and foremost, I want emphasize that you have my commitment and my assurance that we will continue to pursue and fully support efforts to make UND a safe and welcoming place, where everyone feels a strong sense of belonging, fairness, and hope.

Respectfully,

Andrew P. Armacost
President, University of North Dakota