Support for India and UMBC’s Indian Community

Fri, 07 May 2021 15:55:58 -0400
diversity

Dear Members of the UMBC Community,

On Tuesday, India became the second country to surpass 20 million COVID-19 infections, following the United States. Globally, India now accounts for almost half of new cases and a quarter of deaths. This second wave of COVID-19 infections has placed a tremendous strain on the country’s health system and has triggered a growing humanitarian crisis.

We are deeply concerned about this escalating public health crisis and its effects. Many UMBC students, faculty, staff, and alumni have personal connections to India. We also have students who are learning remotely in India. We are concerned for them, their families, and also members of our local UMBC community who are frightened for the safety of loved ones abroad or who have experienced loss.

If you are able, we encourage you to consider supporting the relief effort through a donation to a reputable organization, such as those listed here.

We also want to take this opportunity to note the care and support resources available to community members. The Center for Global Engagement has staff available for support at ies@umbc.edu or +1(410) 455-2624. Students may also contact the Counseling Center to obtain remote crisis counseling services and referrals at +1(410) 455-2472 on weekdays, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. eastern daylight time. The after-hours support line is +1(410) 455-3230.

We are aware that many of our international community members also have questions about UMBC’s fall 2021 plans and vaccination requirement. We continue to work on these issues and will provide additional guidance soon.

UMBC greatly values our international community and connections, and we are committed to supporting our Indian and Indian American community members during this very difficult time.

President Freeman Hrabowski and Provost Philip Rous