The earthquake in Turkey and Syria is a global tragedy and a moment to offer support  

With every passing day, the devastating human toll of the earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria rises, and our Husky community stands with the entire world in grieving this global tragedy. I know that many of us are also looking for ways support the recovery efforts and the developing humanitarian crisis faced by millions of people, including many refugees, in the region. The UW Combined Fund Drive has identified a number of charities that are addressing the most urgent needs in response to the disaster that you can support with a one-time donation or payroll deductions.

Within our university community, we have already reached out directly to every student who we know to be from the affected region to offer support and resources, and our thoughts are with them and their loved ones in this traumatic time. If you know of any students who have been affected, I hope you will offer them your support and let them know that the Office of Student Life is here for them. If you yourself are in need of support, please reach out — there are helpful resources in the sidebar — and know that you are not alone.

In these early days following the earthquake, it is easy to keep this tragedy at the forefront of our consciousness. But I ask everyone in our UW family to remember that the victims and their loved ones, including our friends, classmates, colleagues and neighbors, will be dealing with the aftermath of grief and recovery long after the disaster has left the headlines. Please keep them in your thoughts and your hearts in the months and years of healing the lie ahead – you can visit the UW Combined Fund Drive site if you’re looking for ways to contribute to the many people and communities who benefit from your support. As always, I have great faith in our community’s love and care for one another in troubled times.