To the Case Western Reserve Community:
While we are dismayed and saddened by the worsening conflict in Ukraine, we are inspired by our campus community’s outpouring of compassion and support for our faculty, staff and students who have been impacted by this war.
Since Provost Vinson and I shared our initial message regarding the War in Ukraine last week, we have taken additional actions to stand in solidarity with and advocate for the 1,700 Ukrainian students studying at U.S. colleges and universities today.
First, as a member of the President’s Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, I have joined together with more than 500 college and university presidents who have called on U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas to issue a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation and announce Special Student Relief (SSR) for Ukrainian nationals residing or studying in the United States. Both measures would provide protections and relief for Ukrainian international students. As I write this email, I have learned that the Department of Homeland Security announced the designation of Ukraine for TPS for 18 months.
Also, our university admissions will provide expedited processing for the Form I-20 (which is required to apply for a student visa) and in-person summer courses and summer housing—both at no cost—for incoming Ukrainian undergraduate students who will enroll at the university.
Finally, our grounds crews are in the process of displaying Ukrainian flags on campus as well as yellow and blue lighting on selected buildings at night.
Please remember that University Counseling Services are available to all students any time at 216.368.5872 and online at CWRUCare. In addition, faculty and staff may call 800.227.6007 to access a counselor or reach out to an on-campus mental health support specialist to schedule an appointment.
Once again, our hearts are with the people of Ukraine and those around the world whose lives have been impacted by this war. May democracy and peace prevail.
Sincerely,
Eric W. Kaler
President