Support for Ukrainian Students & Colleagues

Dear SMC Students & Colleagues:

The recent images and news from Ukraine are heartbreaking. Recently, we learned that an estimated 1 million Ukrainians—half of them children—have fled the country, a refugee crisis on a scale Europe has not seen since World War II. Our hearts are with all who are directly in harm’s way as a result of this attack on Ukrainian sovereignty, in clear and systematic violation of international law. The humanitarian toll being felt in Ukraine and around the world is deeply troubling. 

As a college community, we extend compassion, solidarity, and support for all those impacted by this dire crisis, including SMC faculty, staff and students. Our hearts are heavy, and we remain hopeful for the return of peace to Ukraine, and for an end to this war. We have been directly in touch with affected members of our college community and will continue to offer them our heartfelt support. 

How You Can Help Our Ukrainian Students 

• The Santa Monica College Foundation has set up the SMC Ukrainian Student Relief Fund to accept donations to support our Ukrainian students who are unable to return home and need additional financial support. Upon receipt of donations from our community, SMC Foundation will work to swiftly provide direct relief support to eligible students.
  
  

Resources for Impacted Students & Colleagues

Please share the following resources with SMC students you may be in contact with, who might need the relevant information:

• For students, the Center for Wellness and Wellbeing provides a range of wellness and psychological services. For 24/7 emotional support, students can call 1-800-691-6003
  SMC also provides food and housing resources, student jobs, and technology resources. 
• For F-1 visa students with immigration questions, email IntlEd@smc.edu. Academic resources include counseling, IEC counseling, and tutoring centers.
• SMC faculty and staff may reach out to the Los Angeles County Employee Assistance Service for Education for free, confidential mental health support and counseling. Also view: contact EASE on SMC HR’s website. 
• Here also is a list of organizations providing humanitarian aid to people in Ukraine and to the growing flow of refugees vetted by several reputable U.S. news organizations and circulated by Dr. Eloy Ortiz Oakley, Chancellor of the California Community Colleges system. 
  
  

As we—and the world—bear witness to what is happening in Ukraine, we seek refuge in the hope that (to quote and paraphrase U.S. President Joe Biden) the forces of liberty, democracy, and human dignity will prevail and endure. At Santa Monica College, we hope for an end to this war and for a free Ukraine to be returned to its people.

Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D.
Superintendent/President