Dear Students:
Unprecedented flooding has significantly impacted communities in Nebraska and surrounding states over the past two weeks. We know that many of you, your families and neighbors have endured incredibly challenging and discouraging circumstances.
Spring break is usually anticipated as time of relaxation and renewal, yet many have instead felt overwhelming loss, shock and distress. We care about what is happening to you, and our thoughts are with you, your families, neighbors and communities.
If you’ve been affected by flooding, we want you to know resources are available to support you. As you plan to return to campus, please reach out for help navigating challenges.
- For concerns about attendance, academic issues and connecting with campus resources:
Contact Kara Brant, associate director for student advocacy and support
karabrant@unl.edu or 402-472-7030 - For questions about registration, financial aid, scholarships or enrollment services:
Contact Anna Plank, assistant director of the Husker Hub
anna.plank@unl.edu or 402-472-2030
We recognize that some students and their families may not be able to return to normalcy for some time. To help affected students maintain academic progress, the executive vice chancellor is encouraging faculty to offer flexibility in class assignments and attendance policies. This may include (1) offering online coursework via Canvas or digital platforms when appropriate; or (2) issuing an Incomplete (‘I’) and extending coursework for up to one year.
When returning to campus, please watch out for one another. Self-care and compassion are essential during times of extraordinary stress. Our campus support network is here for you, including:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (402.472.7450)
You are not alone. Help is available 24/7 for urgent concerns. You can speak with an on-call counselor on weekends and after-hours. During regular business hours, you can schedule a phone session to speak with a counselor even if you’re not on campus. - Well-being Coaching (402.472.8770)
When returning to campus, you can schedule appointments with student peers trained to provide support, empathy, and care for those who feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or unsupported. - Academic Success Coaching (402.472.1880)
You can schedule free, one-on-one coaching sessions with professional staff to discuss alternative plans and transition support.
View additional campus and community resources.
For those not directly impacted, we know you’re eager to help your fellow students and their families. At this time, the best form of assistance is financial. You can make a donation to support relief efforts by visiting www.redcross.org/donate and selecting “I want to Support Disaster Relief.” If you’re eligible, you also can give blood.
Floodwaters need to recede before we can understand the scope of destruction and ensure volunteer safety for recovery efforts. When it is time to mobilize for clean up, we’ll notify students of opportunities to help across the region.
I know one thing with complete confidence: Nebraskans are caring, resilient and generous. As we witness the vast devastation in our communities, I hope you’ll remember that “We’ll all stick together, In all kinds of weather.”
Together we are Nebraska Strong.
Laurie Bellows, PhD
Interim Vice Chancellor, Student Affairs
Professor of Practice, Educational Psychology
studentaffairs.unl.edu