Dear King’s Community,
Many members of the King’s Community are suffering in connection with the terrible turn of events that took place this weekend in Israel. The terrorist attacks targeting Jewish civilians in Israel are devastating. The actions being undertaken by the Israeli government against the terrorist group Hamas are having horrific consequences for civilians in the Gaza Strip. These events deeply affect many in our community, be it directly or indirectly.
To those impacted I write to let you know that your wellbeing is our utmost concern in this moment, and I offer the heartfelt hope that your loved ones are safe.
Please know that if you need them supports are available.
For Students
For concerns about mental health, safety and wellness you can contact:
- Equity Officer Jasmine Parent – parent@ukings.ca, or text/call 902.943.2361;
- Sexual Health and Safety Officer Jordan Roberts – roberts@ukings.ca, or text/call 902.229.6123;
- Student Support Advisor Isaac Wright – wright@ukings.ca or book an appointment with Isaac directly.
All communication is confidential.
King’s students can access free, same-day counselling through the Student Health & Wellness Centre on Dalhousie’s Studley Campus. Phones are answered from 8 a.m. Monday-Friday or 11 a.m. Saturdays 902.494.2171. Ongoing counselling is available with a waitlist.
Students have health insurance via the KSU and Green Shield’s coverage unless they opted out in September 2023. The coverage is 80% of the cost of each counselling session, up to $1000 per academic year for social workers, counselling therapists, and / or psychologists.
If you need to request academic accommodations, Student Support Advisor Isaac Wright (contact details listed above) can help you to navigate that process. Foundation Year Program students seeking accommodations should contact FYP’s Associate Director, Assistant Professor Tim Clarke, tim.clarke@ukings.ca.
Staff and Faculty
For support around issues of mental health, wellness and safety:
- Equity Officer Jasmine Parent – parent@ukings.ca, or text/call 902.943.2361;
- Sexual Health and Safety Officer Jordan Roberts – roberts@ukings.ca, or text/call 902.229.6123
Faculty in need of workplace accommodations or support are invited to contact the relevant department head, or email Vice-President Sarah Clift at sarah.clift@ukings.ca.
Faculty and staff with questions about compensation, benefits and leave, can contact Human Resources and Compensation Officer dolly.mcintyre@ukings.ca / 902.422.1271 ext. 220. King’s Lifeworks Program is there for you to access at any time.
Please do not hesitate to make use of the resources available and know that your King’s Community is here to support you in these sad, and very difficult times.
Bill Lahey
President, Vice-Chancellor and Professor of Law
