VIDEO: Empathy and understanding during uneasy times

President Armacost discusses current events, Black History Month and UND’s role in the world

A lot is happening in our world, says President Armacost in today’s video address, and it’s important to understand the role UND is playing, too.

As tragedies, ongoing crises and rising tensions – both close to home and abroad – dominate headlines, universities such as UND are key in bringing people together, taking care of one another and encouraging understanding and empathy.

UND is committed to creating a sense of affinity and belonging on campus and among communities affected by recent events in places such as Michigan, Turkey and Syria, as well as in Iran and Ukraine, Armacost says.

And February is Black History Month, during which Armacost encourages the UND community to appreciate the perspectives of others, as well as celebrate the contributions made by Black Americans past and present.

The UND Events Calendar is sharing details of events happening in connection to Black History Month, and UND’s social media channels have been sharing stories of influential Black Americans in the University’s history.

“Gaining a perspective, learning the perspectives of others and developing a sense of empathy and understanding is what we should all be focused on,” he says.