Editor’s note: The following message is from Director of International Students and Scholars Services Greg Wymer in the aftermath of the earthquake in Morocco and the flooding in Libya.
On behalf of CSU and the Office of International Programs, we are reaching out to express our genuine sympathies for those affected by the earthquake in Morocco and the flooding in Libya.
We have been following the recent world news reports and are saddened to learn that, as a result of Storm Daniel causing so much rain in northeast Libya this week, there has been extreme devastation – especially in the eastern city of Derna. One news source indicates “that as many as 6,000 people are missing – with over 2,000 confirmed deaths.” In Morocco, the death toll from the 6.8-magnitude earthquake on Sept. 8 is believed to be more than 2,900. News reports indicate that at least another 5,500 were injured.
Our thoughts and support go out to you and your fellow citizens as Morocco and Libya try to overcome this tragedy. Furthermore, we understand that it may be exponentially more difficult to process this type of tragedy when you are overseas and far from home, where information may be difficult to obtain.
Please know that we are here to support you in any way we can. We are hoping that your countries will be resilient as the people prevail over these tragedies in the present moment and attempt to rebuild in the distant future. Moreover, we are trusting that support from the United Nations and various countries around the world will soon arrive to help support the people of your countries.
The Office of International Programs is available to assist you during this difficult time and encourages you to take advantage of the resources available for support.
International Student and Scholar Advisors are available to meet with you regarding your concerns and to offer support. You may connect with an advisor during Open Advising Monday through Thursday 10-11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. or make an appointment at Remote Advising – International Programs (colostate.edu). You can also reach out through email via the ISSS Cares site.
In addition, all students have access to meet with a counselor through the CSU Health Network. Having an impartial and confidential person to share your concerns with can be both comforting and helpful. You can contact someone to help via the following: CSU Health Network Mental Health and Well-Being Counseling Services at (970)-491-6053 or health.colostate.edu/mhwb-resources.
There is also an International Student Group that meets Tuesdays at Laurel Hall from 3-4:30 p.m., which you are welcome to join. Further information can be obtained by calling the CSU Health Network at 970-491-7121.
The Asian Pacific American Cultural Center is also available to meet with you to offer support. You can visit the office in Room 333 at the Lory Student Center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday to reach professional staff, or call the office at (970) 491-6154.
In addition, the Black/African American Cultural Center is available to provide support. It is located in Room 335 at the Lory Student Center. The office is open 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday to connect with professional staff, or call the office at (970) 491-5781.
We recognize that worrying about friends and family members back home can also impact your concentration and ability to keep up with your academics. We encourage you to speak with your academic advisors and faculty to make them aware of this situation. If you need help with addressing these concerns you may reach out to Case Management.
Please know that you are thought of and cared for as part of the CSU Ramily and that we are here to help you in any way possible.
Sympathies and kind regards,
Greg Wymer
Director of International Students and Scholars Services
Office of International Programs
