Mason joins the nations, companies, and organizations condemning the Russian invasion, and we hear our Ukrainian students’ calls for support. We’re answering that call.
We also know that Russian students enrolled at Mason aren’t responsible for or connected to this war. If they need our help, we’ll assist them, as well.
The university also supports Temporary Protected Status for our students and all Ukrainians here temporarily if the crisis stretches beyond their visa expirations.
“As we rally the services of the university to bear for these students, let’s also offer our hearts. One core value of Mason is 'We thrive together.' This core value is now being put to the test. The Ukrainian word for 'together' is razom, and I challenge us to approach this moment with the spirit of razom — togetherness — for our fellow Patriots in need. Because today, razom is what it means to be a Patriot.”
Statement about Donors (pending)
Summary of statement would go here, with link to the full statement on the news page.
How You Can Get Help
If you're feeling uneasy or anxious about the Ukraine situation, we can help. Mason offers such resources as:
- Counseling and Psychological Services provides help with mental and emotional trauma.
- Emotional Support Line (703-215-1898), a confidential and free resource offered through our Center for Psychological Services. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Monday through Sunday.
- The Ukraine Crisis Student Support Fund can provide funds to manage expenses for students who might have been cut off from support from home.
- The University Life Student Emergency Assistance Fund is open to all Mason students facing financial hardship. Students affected by the war (e.g. from neighboring countries), but who aren’t from Ukraine or Russia, can apply for assistance.
- The Office of International Programs and Services is staying in contact with students to monitor their safety and wellbeing. International students can also contact this office with questions about their visa status, TPS (Temporary Protected Status), OPT (Optional Practical Training), and anything else about their status as an international student.
- The Student Support and Advocacy Center works with students who encounter challenges. Students can seek support directly or someone can refer someone about whom they're concerned by filling out a referral form.
- Bright Horizons Resources for Answering Your Young Child’s Questions About War (PDF): Advice for parents.
- EAP Programs: All health plans offered at Mason to employees and their dependents have employee assistance programs (EAPs). Services include up to four sessions at no charge for such services as mental health, grief counseling and legal or financial services.
Webinars Offer Assistance, Advice
- Self-Care in the Face of Adversity (March 31, noon ET): Register for this event exploring sources and types of trauma, and develop tools to set healthy boundaries and maintain optimal self-care.
- Reset to Resilient: CommonHealth Webinar (recorded March 16, noon ET): The secret to bouncing back from unpleasant and negative experiences is resilience.