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November 1, 2023
Dear Creatives,
As dean of students, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the range of emotions many of us have experienced this past month. Every day we are reminded of the struggles we face individually and collectively. Events that may seem a ‘world away’ are having a daily and direct impact on members of our Columbia College Chicago community. Additionally, the challenges within our own community may add layers of stress, uncertainty, fear, or confusion to our lives. It is a lot to take in and I want you to know that in this, you are not alone. The Columbia community has long been in pursuit of bettering itself through opportunity, reflection, and growth. Are we a perfect system? Not at all. Are we a community of individuals committed to this pursuit? Absolutely. But our collective work cannot continue unless each of us feels seen, understood, safe, and knows that we matter. I ask that you be conscious of one another, compassionate, and show kindness as we navigate our path forward together. We can support each other, share our burdens, and find our way through these challenging times.
Please know that our professional student success staff members stand ready to assist you through whatever barrier or challenge you may be facing, be it at Columbia, at home, or halfway around the world:
· Counseling Service (916 S. Wabash, 5th floor) has walk-in hours Monday-Friday between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. You can also schedule an appointment by calling (312) 369-8700 or completing a request on the website. Virtual support available upon request; please contact the office for details.
· Student Relations (623 S. Wabash, suite 303) can provide short-term counseling services and assist students with connecting to additional resources. Student Relations is available to meet during regular hours Monday-Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Call Student Relations to make an appointment (312) 369-8595 or complete a Student Relations Request for Assistance Form
· Office of Equity Issues (623 S. Wabash, suite 303) investigates and responds to reports of harassment and discrimination within our community. If you need to submit a report of harassment or discrimination you can do so here.
· Student Assistance & Community Standards (623 S. Wabash, suite 303) can help students navigate common barriers impeding success and administers the Student Code of Conduct. Contact StudentAssistance@colum.edu for help.
· Housing & Residential Experience (30 East Balbo, 2nd floor) can assist residential students with any on-campus concerns or issues Housing@colum.edu
· Student Diversity & Inclusion (618 S. Michigan Ave, 4th floor) creates space for exploration and understanding of differences while equipping students with skills and resources necessary to thrive.
· International Student and Scholar Services (618 S. Michigan Ave, 4th floor) provides a nurturing and supportive living and learning environment for Columbia’s international student community.
· Dean of Students (623 S. Wabash, suite 301) helps students resolve concerns, issues, or other challenges related to their success at Columbia. DOS@colum.edu
Additionally, we will have professional support staff available to speak with you about whatever is on your mind during one of the following drop-in sessions:
· Thursday, November 2: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. | 623 S. Wabash, suite 303
· Friday, November 3: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. | 916 S. Wabash, suite 501
· Monday, November 6: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. | Virtual (register here)
· Tuesday, November 7: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. or 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Virtual (register here)
· Wednesday, November 8: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. | Virtual (register here)
· Wednesday, November 8: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Student Center
Finally, I’d like to remind you that a strong community is an accountable community. I ask that you take a moment to review our Anti-Harassment and Discrimination Policy as well as the Student Code of Conduct. Our collective success is only possible when we allow differences to thrive. Behavior that is deemed disruptive, harassing, threatening has no place in our space and should be reported here.
On behalf of the dedicated staff supporting and championing your success, I am grateful to be part of this Columbia community – to learn with you and from you is a reality I hold close as we navigate the challenges ahead.
Sincerely,
Dean Eck
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