To our U of T Engineering community,
The entire U of T community is shaken by the devastating war that has unfolded in Israel and Gaza over the weekend. I have heard from many students, staff, faculty and alumni who are deeply concerned for family, friends and colleagues in the region. I share in your sorrow and concern.
I encourage everyone to check in on each other, engage in respectful dialogue and seek support if you are feeling overwhelmed. The Faculty’s Mental Health & Wellness page outlines several resources for different groups within U of T Engineering and across U of T, as well as information on how to connect with our Mental Health Programs Officer. I’d like to highlight a few resources here:
- Students can connect with 24/7 support through U of T Telus Health Student Support
- Undergraduates with academic concerns should connect with their departmental academic advisor (upper-year students) or their first year academic advisor
- Undergraduates may also seek community among affiliated engineering student groups
- Graduate students can contact their departmental graduate administrators
- Staff and faculty can access the Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
- All community members are welcome to connect with Marisa Sterling, Assistant Dean, Diversity, Inclusion & Professionalism or leverage the confidential disclosure process
- Each Friday, the Engineering Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Action Group meets to discuss culture and inclusion among an engaged group of peers — all at U of T Engineering are welcome to join
- Students across U of T are also welcome to attend the Grief Support Sharing Circle, led by clinicians and campus chaplains
Many in our community are impacted in different ways by this conflict. As the University continues to monitor the situation closely, it is important that our actions are guided with compassion and kindness.
Take care,
Chris Yip
Dean