Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Janina Montero

UCLA Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Janina Montero

Dear students:

We have all been deeply moved by the devastating news coming out of China's Sichuan Provence. The massive earthquake is having vast consequences for so many and you may be feeling the impact of the catastrophe here, at UCLA. Those of you with family and friends in the areas severely impacted will surely be especially anxious and saddened. It may be difficult for you to stay focused on your daily student schedule and maintain your commitment to supporting family and friends dealing with this tragedy. We extend our support and sympathy to all members of the UCLA family who are affected by the earthquake. Our thoughts are with you during this very difficult time.

It is important to remember that we have caring people on campus ready to stand with you in this time of crisis. You should know that we have Mandarin-speaking counselors in Student Psychological Services; all the staff there are eager to listen to your concerns and provide you with practical coping advice. You can access their web page at www.sps.ucla.edu or call one of their counselors 24-hours a day at (310) 825-0768. If you have specific questions about their services, feel free to email the Director of Student Psychological Services, Dr. Elizabeth Gong-Guy at egongguy@sps.ucla.edu.

If you live on campus, we have a network of resident assistants (RAs) and resident directors (RDs) who can help you find the proper resources. That information is available at www.orl.ucla.edu. The Dean of Students office is also available to assist if you need help rescheduling mid-terms and finals to accommodate emergency-related travel. They are located in Murphy Hall – Room 1206 or can be accessed at www.deanofstudents.ucla.edu. Finally, Student Loan Services may be able to assist with crises-related emergency loans for those who qualify. To find out more about this program, please go to www.loans.ucla.edu.

Please do not hesitate to call these offices or any university administrator with your concerns.

If you would like to lend personal assistance in this crisis, contact the Red Cross at www.redcross.org. According to latest reports, they have formed a disaster relief working group to be dispatched to the earthquake-stricken Sichuan Provence.

In true UCLA spirit, we anticipate our student organizations will be coordinating relief efforts. Please keep us aware of these projects and we will do our best to lend support.

Janina Montero
Vice Chancellor – Student Affairs