The death and suffering caused by the recent earthquake and tsunami that struck nations bordering the Indian Ocean grieves all of us deeply. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all who have been touched by this natural disaster, particularly to those families that have lost or are unable to locate loved ones. This tragedy is of such unthinkably enormous proportions that it is quite likely that a number of students, faculty and staff have been either directly or indirectly affected. To those of you who are grieving the loss of family members or friends, I extend my deepest condolences.

In this time of international mourning, I also wish to remind you of services that are available through the UCR Counseling Center and the International Services Center. Counseling Center staff can provide consultation to students, faculty and staff who are experiencing emotional distress due to this disaster. The International Services Center can assist international students, researchers and faculty who may be having difficulty reaching family in the affected nations. Helpful links to these resources and others appear on this page and will be updated reguarly.

The world community has pulled together quickly to provide some immediate relief to the stricken regions. Yet it will undoubtedly take many months, and likely years, for the affected nations of south Asia and east Africa to fully recover. For those of you who wish to contribute to the effort, following the links to the left can access several major relief organizations. The websites of many news organizations also contain information about relief efforts. Charitable contributions will accomplish much to aid the recovery.

Sincerely,

France A. Córdova
Chancellor