Dear Parents:
In response to situations in other parts of the globe and how the ensuing apprehension and anxiety can affect our University and residential communities, I want to assure you that the University of Michigan has worked diligently to plan for any number of contingencies. Although we have no information at this time about any specific threat to the University, we want to keep our community informed about preparations and planning in the event of crisis. Our students and staff have been provided with the information they need to make good personal decisions about safety and security. Faculty and staff members are trained to provide support and guidance to students who may be anxious or who may have concerns.
Emergency plans have been in place at U-M for some time. However, since 9-11, all of us have become more aware of the need to be prepared for potential crises. Staff members from the Department of Public Safety, Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, the Health Systems, Plant Operations, Student Affairs, and others have been working together to coordinate efforts for emergency preparedness at the University. Plans have been systematically reviewed and revised, where necessary, to help ensure a safe and secure campus environment.
The University has launched this Emergency Management website to provide up-to-date information about steps U-M is taking to bolster local safety and security, as well as identifies important campus resources and particularly relevant services for students and their families, faculty and staff, and visitors.
Finally, U-M is comprised of students, faculty, and staff from 50 states and over 100 countries representing a great diversity of viewpoints. There can be significant feelings on our campus about various conflicts and situations—both in support and in opposition. We are encouraging our students to talk about what they are thinking and feeling within the context of the University community in order to learn and grow during these historical times.
If you have particular concerns for your student(s) or if you simply have questions you would like to ask, please let us know by sending an email to assist-me@umich.edu or by calling 734-764-5132.
With warm regards,
E. Royster Harper
Vice President for Student Affairs