UMB Student Affairs expresses our support for individuals who are experiencing stress and worry due to the impact that COVID-19 continues to have in the United States and globally. Conditions in India, Brazil, and other parts of the world remain particularly critical. Currently, India’s daily infection rate is the highest in the world with more than 400,000 new cases reported each day. This is indeed a crisis in India as a staggering number of individuals need, but cannot access supplies, oxygen, and critical care.  

The Student Counseling Center stands ready to support all students. You might be interested in participating in their daily Tele-Talk opportunity offered virtually from Monday-Friday. Employees can contact the Employee Assistance Program to access counseling services.

It is heartwarming to see messages from individuals who want to provide support. I am aware of efforts focused on providing support to members of the UMB community and India by students from the School of Pharmacy Student Government Association as well as the Indian Association student organization. The Office of International Services recently contacted Indian students and scholars to express support.

During this difficult time, please contact family and friends as well as resources within your School and the University to find support. Do what you can to support friends and colleagues by becoming knowledgeable about the devastating impact that COVID-19 is having in India and other countries, and perhaps contribute to a fundraising effort.

Although conditions are improving in Maryland and across the United States, the situation remains serious in India, Brazil, and other countries. Please continue to adhere to health safety precautions and requirements to keep yourself and individuals in the U.S. and around the world safe. As a global and interconnected community, we can engage in a variety of individual actions that have a positive impact.   

Sincerely,

Patty Alvarez, PhD, MS
Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs
Office of the Provost
University of Maryland, Baltimore
palvarez@umaryland.edu
umaryland.edu/umb-student-affairs/